naturally since the cuisine is named after the amazon river, the second largest river in the world, the most common food found here is fish, and the majority of dishes feature the sea creature.

the tambaqui is a large fish related to the piranha, but herbivorous, and prized for its ribs, which are often barbecued - the pirarucu is one of the world's largest freshwater fish, a staple and comfort food of the native populace - tucunaré is a large peacock bass type fish which is as important to sport fishermen as it is to the people who prepare it - other smaller fish such as jaraqui, surubim, curimati, tucunar and acarí, are all enjoyed in a variety of different ways.

these fishes can be grilled, stewed, or smoked freshwater fish and made with boiled shrimp, and with sauces, salt, chili, garlic, yuca, and a local plant called jambú - the manioc plant, which is a major source of carbohydrates and starch for the region, is also frequently seen in almost every dish.