Get ready to spice up your culinary adventures with these 20 mouth-watering and flavorful Asian-inspired crab recipes! From the sweetness of Singaporean chilli crab to the boldness of Korean spicy crab stew, we’ve gathered a diverse array of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for new inspiration in the kitchen, this list has something for everyone.
From classic curries and stews to fresh salads and soups, each dish showcases the versatility of crab as an ingredient. And with a range of spice levels and flavor profiles on offer, there’s something to suit every palate. So go ahead, take a culinary journey through Asia, and indulge in these deliciously spicy and savory crab recipes.
Singapore Chilli Crab
Experience the bold flavors of Singapore with this classic chilli crab recipe. This popular seafood dish is a staple in local cuisine, and with these simple steps, you can recreate it at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into quarters
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed chilli peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp fish sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and chilli peppers; stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
3. Add crab pieces; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until slightly pink.
4. Pour in tomato sauce, fish sauce, and soy sauce; stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the crab is fully cooked and coated with the chilli sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Crab Curry
Thai Crab Curry Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this spicy and savory crab curry dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add curry paste; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and turmeric powder.
5. Add crab meat; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until crab is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Crab Noodle Soup
This refreshing and flavorful soup is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for a light and nourishing meal on a warm day. With succulent crab meat, tender noodles, and a savory broth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound of king crab meat (or substitute with snow crab or imitation crab)
– 4 cups of fish stock (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add crab meat and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in fish stock and water, followed by soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked noodles and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Korean Spicy Crab Stew
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy crab stew, a popular street food dish that combines succulent crab meat with a punchy gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and chili flakes; cook until fragrant.
2. Add crab meat, fish stock, water, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Japanese Crab Miso Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, featuring succulent crab meat and a rich miso broth.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dashi broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 8 oz fresh crab meat, flaked
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dashi broth, miso paste, soy sauce, sake, ginger, and sugar. Whisk until the miso is dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir until heated through.
4. Add the flaked crab meat and cook for 1-2 minutes, until warmed through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Black Pepper Crab
This iconic Malaysian dish is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Succulent crab meat cooked to perfection in a rich and aromatic black pepper sauce, served with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and white pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and black pepper; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add crab pieces; stir-fry until they turn pink (about 5 minutes).
4. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Filipino Crab Adobo
Crabs are a staple in many Filipino dishes, and this recipe brings together the sweetness of crab meat with the savory flavors of adobo. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or frozen crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/2 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the crab meat; stir to combine with the aromatics.
4. Pour in the vinegar, soy sauce, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the crab is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Ginger and Scallion Crab
A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that combines the sweetness of crab with the pungency of ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ginger, scallions, and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add crab meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any lumps with a spatula.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Indonesian Chilli Crab Stir-Fry
This spicy and savory stir-fry is a popular Indonesian dish that combines the sweetness of crabs with the bold flavors of chillies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe is easy to make and deliciously addictive.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon chilli paste (sambal oelek)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and fried shallots for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add chilli paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crab meat and stir-fry until heated through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and sugar. Pour into the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and fried shallots if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cambodian Crab and Green Mango Salad
This refreshing salad is a staple in Cambodian cuisine, combining the sweetness of green mango with the savory flavor of crab meat. A perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as cilantro, mint, and basil)
– 1 ripe green mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together crab meat, fish sauce, and lime juice.
3. Add the crab mixture to the bowl with the greens and toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped jalapeño pepper if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Hong Kong Typhoon Shelter Crab
Discover the bold flavors of Hong Kong’s famous typhoon shelters with this mouthwatering crab recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add crab meat; stir-fry until lightly cooked (1 minute).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the crab; stir-fry until coated and heated through (1-2 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Burmese Crab Curry with Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Myanmar with this aromatic crab curry served over fluffy rice. This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Burmese cuisine, perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in crab meat and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
6. Serve over cooked white rice, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Taiwanese Salt and Pepper Crab
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of salt and pepper to create a mouthwatering crab dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this Taiwanese favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp white pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the crab meat and stir-fry until it’s just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the salt, black pepper, and white pepper. Stir-fry for another minute to combine flavors.
4. Add the garlic and scallions. Stir-fry for a final 30 seconds.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shanghai Drunken Crab
A popular Szechuan dish that combines the flavors of crab meat with a savory sauce and aromatics, all cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp scallions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add crab meat; cook until it starts to turn white, about 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add to the wok; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Stir in chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indian Crab Masala
Experience the bold flavors of India with this succulent crab dish, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking to add some excitement to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 cup tomato puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in tomato puree and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat and cook until heated through (2-3 minutes).
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bangladeshi Crab Bhuna
Bangladeshi Crab Bhuna: A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that combines succulent crab meat with a blend of spices and herbs. This classic Bengali recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green chilies, chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add chopped green chilies and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Laotian Crab and Herb Salad
This Laotian-inspired salad combines the sweetness of crab meat with the pungency of herbs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as a light and refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, cilantro, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sri Lankan Crab Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a staple of Sri Lankan cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of coconut milk and succulent crab meat. Perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a taste of the island nation’s culinary heritage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat and stir gently to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until crab is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Crab Tempura
Experience the delight of Japanese cuisine with this simple and flavorful crab tempura recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tempura batter mix (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and spices.
2. Add crab meat to the mixture; gently fold until well combined.
3. Gradually add soda water while stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Cut into small pieces or shape into desired form (e.g., balls or patties).
5. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat to 350°F.
6. Fry crab tempura in batches for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels; serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (frying time)
Thai Crab Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic fried rice, this Thai-inspired dish combines succulent crab meat with savory aromatics and a hint of chili heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add curry paste; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add crab meat; stir-fry until heated through, about 1 minute.
5. Push crab mixture to one side; pour in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with crab mixture; add cooked rice and stir-fry until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions and cilantro (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime! This article brings together 20 mouth-watering and diverse crab recipes from across Asia, each with its own unique flavor profile. From Singapore’s famous Chilli Crab to Japan’s Crab Miso Soup, and from Vietnam’s hearty Crab Noodle Soup to India’s aromatic Crab Masala, there’s something for every palate. With ingredients ranging from chilies to ginger, coconut milk to miso paste, these recipes showcase the rich culinary heritage of Asia while offering a delicious twist on traditional crab dishes. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to spice up your cooking routine, this collection is sure to inspire and delight!
