Chili Crab

Chili Crab is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making it one of the most beloved seafood dishes in Southeast Asia. This iconic dish features succulent crabs coated in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy tomato-based sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and chili. The combination of tender crab meat and the bold flavors of the sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience. Whether served with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, Chili Crab is a dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 large crabs (about 1.5 lbs each), cleaned and cut into pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2-3 red chilies, minced (adjust according to heat preference)
• 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
• 2 tbsp chili sauce (like Sriracha or sambal oelek)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crabs: Clean the crabs thoroughly and cut them into manageable pieces. Crack the claws slightly to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and minced chilies. Sauté until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato ketchup, chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce is well combined and begins to thicken slightly.
4. Cook the Crabs: Add the crab pieces to the wok and toss them in the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the wok and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the crab meat is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
5. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the Egg: Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the wok while stirring gently to create silky egg ribbons throughout the sauce.
7. Serve: Transfer the Chili Crab to a serving dish, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Chili Crab is a dish that brings a taste of Southeast Asian culinary tradition to your home, offering a delightful mix of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.