Chili Crab Recipe
Experience the bold and savory flavors of Singaporean cuisine with Chili Crab, a beloved seafood dish featuring succulent crabs smothered in a rich, spicy, and slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. Perfect for special gatherings or a weekend treat, Chili Crab is a dish that impresses both in taste and presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 live mud crabs (about 1.5 pounds each), cleaned and halved
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 inches fresh ginger, minced
- 2-3 fresh red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken stock or water
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Steamed buns or rice, for serving
Instructions
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Prepare the Crabs
If not already done, clean the crabs by removing the shell, gills, and gut. Cut each crab in half and lightly crack the claws to allow the sauce to penetrate.
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Make the Sauce
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and chilies, and sauté until fragrant and soft. Stir in ketchup, chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Cook the Crabs
Add the crab halves to the sauce, turning to coat them evenly. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the crab meat turns opaque and fully cooked, occasionally spooning sauce over the crab.
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Finish the Sauce
Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the sauce while stirring gently to create ribbons of egg. Add chopped green onions and adjust seasoning with salt, sugar, or extra chili sauce if desired.
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Serve
Transfer the chili crab to a large serving platter, spooning the sauce over the crabs. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with steamed buns or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving
Chili Crab is best enjoyed with hands-on eating, cracking the shells to savor every bite. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors makes this dish a centerpiece for any meal, offering an unforgettable taste of Singaporean culinary tradition.
