Crab Tandoori: A Spicy and Succulent Seafood Delight

Introduction:

Crab Tandoori is an exotic Indian dish that combines the delicate sweetness of crab meat with the bold, smoky flavors of traditional tandoori spices. Perfectly marinated and grilled, this dish is a treat for seafood lovers and a fantastic way to enjoy crab with a unique twist. Whether you're hosting a special dinner or just craving something extraordinary, Crab Tandoori is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and succulent texture.

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Ingredients:

4 medium-sized crabs (cleaned and cut into halves)

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For the Marinade:

1 cup thick yogurt (hung curd)

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

2 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon chaat masala

1 tablespoon mustard oil (optional, for authentic flavor)

1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, finely chopped

Salt to taste

Lemon wedges and onion rings (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Crabs:

Start by cleaning the crabs thoroughly. Remove the shell, gills, and the soft inner parts, leaving the legs and claws intact. Cut each crab in half for easy marinating and grilling.

In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, turmeric powder, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the crabs, making sure to get it into the crevices. Let the crabs rest for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to reduce the raw odor and infuses some initial flavor into the crabs.

2. Preparing the Marinade:

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and chaat masala.

Pour in the mustard oil for a traditional tandoori flavor (optional). Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the marinade.

Stir in the chopped coriander and mint leaves. Adjust the salt according to taste and mix the marinade until all the ingredients are well combined.

3. Marinating the Crabs:

Generously coat the crabs with the prepared marinade, ensuring that the mixture covers every part of the crabs, including the legs and claws.

Cover the marinated crabs and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

4. Cooking the Crabs:

Grilling:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the crabs from sticking.

Place the marinated crabs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the crabs are fully cooked and have a nice charred surface.

Baste the crabs with mustard oil or butter occasionally to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.

Oven:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

Line a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place the marinated crabs on it.

Bake the crabs for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crabs are cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior.

For an added smoky flavor, finish the crabs under the broiler for a few minutes at the end.

5. Serving:

Once cooked, remove the crabs from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serve the Crab Tandoori hot, garnished with lemon wedges and onion rings.

This dish pairs wonderfully with mint chutney, and you can enjoy it with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

Conclusion:

Crab Tandoori is a perfect fusion of traditional Indian flavors and fresh seafood, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The marinade infuses the crab meat with rich, spicy notes, while the grilling process adds a delightful smoky aroma and a slight char. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy way to enjoy crab, offering a unique dining experience that’s sure to be a hit with seafood lovers. Whether you're serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a special treat, Crab Tandoori is a recipe that will leave a lasting impression.