Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Singapore with this legendary Chili Crab recipe! Imagine succulent crab pieces bathed in a luscious, spicy-sweet sauce that dances between tangy, heat, and pure umami bliss. This iconic dish isn't just a meal—it's a sensory experience that transforms ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast that will transport you straight to the hawker centers of Southeast Asia.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Singaporean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg crab, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 tablespoons chili paste
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crab by cleaning thoroughly, removing the top shell, and breaking the body into large pieces. Pat the crab pieces dry with paper towels to ensure proper sauce adherence.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add chili paste to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromatic oils and develop a deeper flavor profile.
- Pour in tomato puree, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir the sauce thoroughly to combine all ingredients, creating a rich and vibrant base for the crab.
- Carefully add the crab pieces to the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Reduce heat to medium and cover the wok, allowing the crab to cook for about 8-10 minutes.
- Slowly pour beaten eggs into the wok, stirring gently to create soft, silky egg strands that will integrate with the sauce.
- Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the crab is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency.
- Transfer the chili crab to a large serving platter, garnish generously with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve immediately with steamed white rice or mantou (Chinese bread) to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Crab: Always select live or freshly cleaned crabs for the most authentic flavor and texture.
- Prep is Key: Pat the crab pieces completely dry before cooking to ensure the sauce clings perfectly and creates a beautiful caramelization.
- Control Your Heat: When sautéing garlic and ginger, watch carefully to prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter.
- Chili Paste Matters: Use a high-quality chili paste for the most authentic Singaporean flavor profile.
- Egg Technique: When adding beaten eggs, pour slowly and stir gently to create delicate, silky egg strands throughout the sauce.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with steamed white rice or mantou bread to soak up every delicious drop of the incredible sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 379kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 261mg
