Chilli Crab

Chilli Crab is a mouthwatering seafood dish featuring whole crabs cooked in a rich and spicy tomato-chili sauce. The crabs are stir-fried with aromatic spices, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that is often enjoyed with steamed rice.

  • 2 whole crabs, cleaned and cracked
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
  • 2-3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili sauce (Sambal Oelek works well)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crabs:

    • Clean and crack the crabs, if not done already. Set aside.
  2. Make the Sauce:

    • In a bowl, mix together the tomato paste, chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Add 1 cup of water and stir until well combined.
  3. Stir-Fry Aromatics:

    • In a wok or large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped red chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
  4. Add the Crabs:

    • Add the cleaned and cracked crabs to the wok. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes to lightly cook the crabs.
  5. Pour in the Sauce:

    • Pour the prepared sauce over the crabs, ensuring they are well-coated. Stir to combine.
  6. Simmer:

    • Reduce the heat to medium, cover the wok, and let the crabs simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through. Stir occasionally.
  7. Garnish and Serve:

    • Once the crab is cooked and the sauce has thickened, garnish with chopped spring onions and fresh cilantro.
  8. Serve Hot:

    • Serve the Malaysian Chilli Crab hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chilli Crab, a flavorful Malaysian seafood dish! Adjust the spice level according to your preference.