Get ready to level up your seafood game with these 18 Spicy Chilli Crabs Recipes with a Twist! Chilli crabs are a popular dish in many Asian cuisines, and for good reason – they’re ridiculously delicious. But we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill chilli crab recipes. No way, we’re taking it to the next level by incorporating unique twists and flavors from around the world.
From Singaporean-inspired dishes to Korean-style stews, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting. Whether you like a little heat or a lot, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some spicy chilli crab goodness, and let’s dive in!
Singaporean Chilli Crab with Mantou Buns
Experience the flavors of Singapore with this iconic dish that combines succulent crab meat with spicy chilli sauce, served with fluffy mantou buns for a delightful contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cracked
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup chilli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Mantou buns (about 6-8 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and crab; stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until crab is pinkish-white.
3. Add chilli sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot with mantou buns on the side.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Chilli Crab
This sweet and spicy Sriracha chilli crab recipe combines the flavors of tropical fruit, spicy heat, and succulent crustaceans for a unique and mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, Sriracha sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Milk Infused Chilli Crab
Elevate your chilli crab game with the rich and creamy addition of coconut milk! This decadent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chilli flakes
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and chilli flakes; stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat; cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in fish sauce, coconut milk, and tomato ketchup.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves (if using).
8. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Lemongrass Chilli Crab
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and delicious recipe for Lemongrass Chilli Crab. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying seafood meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crab legs (fresh or frozen)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chilli flakes, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crab legs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Pour the lemongrass mixture into the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Chilli Crab with Herbs
Elevate your crab game with this rich and flavorful recipe, where succulent chilli crab is elevated by the pungency of garlic butter and the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chilli flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chilli flakes and stir for another minute.
4. Stir in crab meat until well coated with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the crab mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped parsley and dill.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Black Pepper Chilli Crab Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe, featuring succulent crab meat infused with black pepper and chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon chilli flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, black pepper, and chilli flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add crab meat; stir-fry until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tom Yum Flavored Chilli Crab
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this spicy and savory Tom Yum flavored chilli crab recipe, perfect for seafood lovers!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and split
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai red chilies, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Tom Yum paste
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chilies, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add Tom Yum paste; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Pour in water, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until crab is cooked through.
6. Serve with chopped scallions and steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Chilli Crab with Tamarind Glaze
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional crab dishes, this recipe combines succulent chili-crusted crab with a tangy tamarind glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp tamarind paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes and brown sugar.
3. Coat crab meat with the chili-sugar mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated crab on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine tamarind paste, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Remove crab from oven and brush with the tamarind glaze. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Fried Chilli Crab with Spring Onions
A flavorful and crunchy twist on traditional chilli crab, this recipe combines succulent crab meat with a crispy fried coating and a hint of spring onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon chilli flakes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons chilli sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and chilli flakes.
2. Add the crab meat to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dry mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the crab mixture in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with sliced spring onions and chilli sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Curry Chilli Crab
Experience the bold flavors of Malaysia with this spicy and savory crab dish. This recipe combines succulent crab meat with a rich curry sauce, fresh chilies, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 1 tablespoon chilli flakes
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chilies, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and tomato; stir-fry until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
3. Add curry powder, chilli flakes, coconut milk, fish sauce, soy sauce, and turmeric powder; stir well to combine.
4. Add crab meat and stir-fry until it’s fully coated with the curry sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced fresh chilies if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chilli Crab Pasta in Creamy Sauce
Get ready to savor a rich and flavorful pasta dish infused with the sweetness of crab, spiciness of chilli, and creaminess of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 lb king crab legs, thawed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chilli flakes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chilli flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add crab legs and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy crab sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chilli Crab with Lime Zest
This recipe elevates the flavors of traditional chilli crab by adding a zesty kick from lime zest and a smoky depth from grilling. Perfect for seafood lovers looking to spice up their dinner routine!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chilli flakes
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, olive oil, garlic, chilli flakes, and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place crab mixture on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until lightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated lime zest.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese-Style Chilli Crab with Fish Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chilli, fish sauce, and succulent crab meat to create a mouthwatering dish that’s both spicy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chilli flakes
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and chilli flakes; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the crab meat; stir-fry until it turns opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the fish sauce mixture (fish sauce, sugar, water); stir-fry until the crab is fully coated, about 1 minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Miso Chilli Crab Broth
Spicy Miso Chilli Crab Broth: A savory and spicy soup that combines the richness of miso with the sweetness of crab, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon chilli flakes
– 4 cups crab broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add miso paste, chilli flakes, and crab broth. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chilli Crab Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with these flavorful and spicy Chilli Crab Tacos, paired with a creamy Avocado Salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Chilli Crab Filling:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chilli flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add chilli flakes and cook for 1 minute. Stir in crab meat and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the Chilli Crab Filling onto a warmed tortilla, followed by Avocado Salsa.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chilli Crab Stew
A sweet and spicy Korean-inspired crab stew that combines the rich flavors of gochujang chili paste with succulent king crab, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs, thawed
– 2 tbsp gochujang chili paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine gochujang paste, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and water. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the crab legs and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 10-12 minutes or until crab is cooked through.
4. Stir in green onions. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Chilli Crab Fried Rice with Egg Ribbons
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this spicy and savory Chilli Crab Fried Rice, elevated by delicate egg ribbons. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup chilli crab sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Push onion aside; add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add mixed vegetables and chilli crab sauce. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Scramble in eggs, breaking them up into thin ribbons as they cook.
6. Add cooked rice to the wok or skillet, stirring until combined with the vegetable mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chilli Crab with Cheese Crust
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent baked chilli crab, topped with a crispy cheese crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup chilli flakes
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crab meat, chilli flakes, butter, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top of the crab mixture.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 unique and mouth-watering chilli crab recipes! From classic Singaporean dishes to fusion twists like sweet and spicy sriracha or Thai-inspired lemongrass flavors, there’s something for every palate. Try adding coconut milk for a creamy twist or go bold with black pepper for an aromatic kick. Even pasta and tacos get the chilli crab treatment! Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting stir-fry or a flavorful stew, this collection has got you covered. Dive in and discover your new favorite recipe!