jannababe
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Singaporean Chili Crab, and it was an incredible culinary adventure! This iconic dish features sweet, succulent crab smothered in a spicy and tangy tomato-chili sauce. It’s a delightful combination of flavors that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here’s how to make it at home:
Ingredients:
For the Crab:
- 2 large crabs (about 2-3 pounds total), cleaned and cut into pieces (I like to use Sri Lankan or mud crabs)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2-3 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
For Serving:
- Steamed buns or fried mantou (optional)
- Cooked rice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crab:
- Clean and cut the crabs into manageable pieces. If you're not comfortable doing this, you can ask your fishmonger to prepare the crabs for you.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a large wok or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped chili peppers, and chopped onion. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are translucent.
3. Cook the Crab:
- Add the cleaned crab pieces to the wok and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they start to turn bright red.
- Pour in the ketchup, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir to combine and coat the crab pieces evenly.
- Add the water, bring to a simmer, and cover the wok. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the crab to absorb the flavors.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the sauce thickens. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
- Serve the chili crab hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.
- Pair it with steamed buns or fried mantou to soak up the delicious sauce, and serve it alongside cooked rice if desired.
Conclusion
Singaporean Chili Crab is a true feast for the senses, combining rich flavors and a delightful kick of heat. It's perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner with loved ones. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in the vibrant tastes of Singapore right from your kitchen!
