Shrimp in pumpkin, or *Camarão na Moranga*, is a tasty Brazilian dish you'll love! Imagine creamy shrimp cooked in a sweet roasted pumpkin. This dish started in the 1940s, so it has a fun history! �� To make it, you roast the pumpkin and fill it with a mix of sautéed shrimp, garlic, and cheese. Serve it with rice and fried potatoes for a special meal. Isn't it a great way to impress your guests? Plus, leftovers are easy to store and reheat. Want to learn how to make this delightful dish? Stick around for more tips! ��️

History

Emerging from the 1940s in Bertioga, São Paulo, Brazil, Camarão na Moranga was created as a clever way to use the excess pumpkins grown by political prisoners.

This dish not only highlights Brazilian culture but also showcases the importance of using local ingredients, similar to the way Ooni ovens emphasize cooking versatility with their ability to prepare a variety of dishes.

Isn't it fascinating how food can tell a story? This dish not only highlights Brazilian culture but also connects to an urban legend about prisoners growing pumpkins under tough conditions, giving the dish a unique flavor.

Typically served during festive occasions like Christmas and New Year's Eve, it emphasizes family gatherings and celebrations.

Over the years, Camarão na Moranga has grown in popularity, showcasing a blend of indigenous, African, and Portuguese culinary traditions.

Have you tried it yet? It's a delicious reminder of Brazil's rich history and diverse food culture!

Recipe

Camarão na Moranga, or Shrimp in Pumpkin, is a delightful and festive dish that showcases the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin creates a comforting meal that's perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

This dish can be complemented by crispy fried foods using a high-quality deep fryer, such as the 5 Best Waring Pro Deep Fryers of 2024, which guarantees crispy results every time. The dish not only pleases the palate but also makes for an impressive presentation when served in the beautifully roasted pumpkin shell.

To prepare this traditional dish, you'll need to start by selecting a good quality pumpkin, preferably a Cinderella or Kabocha variety, which is known for its sweet flesh and sturdy skin. The shrimp filling is made by sautéing aromatics and tomatoes, and then thickening the mixture with flour and cream to achieve a luscious consistency.

Once baked to golden perfection, this dish can be served alongside white rice and fried potatoes for a complete meal that's sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium Cinderella or Kabocha pumpkin
• 1 kg medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 200g cream cheese or Catupiry cheese
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Begin by cutting the top off the pumpkin and scooping out the seeds and fibrous insides. Roast the pumpkin in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender.

While the pumpkin is roasting, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down. Stir in the flour, followed by the milk or cream, and cook until thickened.

Next, add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just pink. Remove the pumpkin from the oven, fill it with the shrimp mixture, and top with cream cheese or Catupiry cheese and grated Parmesan. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Extra Tips:

When selecting your pumpkin, choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This will guarantee it holds up well during cooking.

For a flavor boost, consider adding spices such as paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture for a slight kick. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat gently to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Brazilian classic!

Final Thoughts

Savoring the flavors of Camarão na Moranga can elevate any gathering, making it a memorable experience for you and your guests. This traditional Brazilian dish, with its creamy shrimp filling, is a perfect choice for festive occasions.

Imagine serving this stunning stuffed pumpkin recipe as an impressive centerpiece on your table! The sweetness of the pumpkin flesh pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp, especially when you add some grated parmesan cheese on top.

For a healthier cooking option, consider using an air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with less oil. Don't forget to serve it with white rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

And if you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this delightful meal again. Why not make it your new go-to dish?