Crab Masala Recipe

Introduction: 

Crab Masala is a flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that is popular in coastal regions of India. This dish combines fresh crabs with a rich, spicy masala made from a blend of roasted spices, onions, tomatoes, and coconut. The result is a dish that is bursting with layers of flavor, making it a treat for seafood lovers. Crab Masala is best served with steamed rice, roti, or even as an accompaniment to a South Indian meal.

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Ingredients:

1 kg fresh crabs, cleaned and cut into pieces

3 tablespoons oil

2 large onions, finely chopped

2 large tomatoes, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

2 teaspoons red chili powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon garam masala powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder

1/2 cup fresh grated coconut (optional)

1/4 cup tamarind pulp

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Masala Paste:

1 tablespoon oil

1 tablespoon fennel seeds

1 tablespoon cumin seeds

1 tablespoon coriander seeds

4-5 dried red chilies

5-6 black peppercorns

1-inch cinnamon stick

4-5 cloves

2 green cardamom pods

Instructions:

Prepare the Masala Paste:

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan and add the fennel seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, dried red chilies, black peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom pods.

Roast the spices on medium heat until they turn fragrant and slightly browned.

Allow the spices to cool, then grind them into a fine powder or paste using a blender. Set aside.

Cook the Crab:

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala.

Add the Spices:

Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and the prepared masala paste to the pan.

Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spices are well incorporated and the masala turns rich and aromatic.

Add Coconut and Tamarind:

(Optional) Add the grated coconut to the masala and cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns light brown.

Add the tamarind pulp and a little water if needed, and cook until the masala thickens slightly.

Cook the Crabs:

Add the cleaned crab pieces to the masala and mix well to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.

Cover the pan and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the crabs are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Garnish and Serve:

Once the crabs are cooked, sprinkle with garam masala powder and black pepper powder for an extra kick of flavor.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or roti, and enjoy the rich and spicy Crab Masala.

Conclusion: 

Crab Masala is a dish that captures the essence of coastal Indian cuisine with its bold and spicy flavors. The tender crab meat, infused with the aromatic masala and tamarind, creates a taste sensation that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re serving it as part of a family meal or for a special occasion, Crab Masala is sure to impress with its complex flavors and vibrant presentation. Enjoy this traditional delicacy and bring a taste of the coast to your table!