Seafood has always held a special place in Indian cuisine, thanks to the country's vast coastline spanning over 7,500 kilometres. The diverse coastal regions of India boast an incredible array of seafood delicacies that are deeply rooted in the local cultures and traditions. From succulent prawns and flavorful fish to the star of the tableṣ– the mighty crab – the coastal cuisine of India offers a treasure trove of culinary delights. Each region brings its unique flavours and techniques to the table, resulting in a fascinating tapestry of crab recipes.
Bengali Bhapa Crab:
Bengalis have a penchant for robust flavours, and their Bhapa Crab recipe perfectly showcases this. The crabs are marinated in a blend of mustard paste, coconut, and spices, then steamed to perfection. The result is a dish that combines the delicate sweetness of crab meat with the pungent, tangy flavours of mustard and coconut.
Goan Crab Xacuti:
Goa, known for its vibrant beach culture, brings us the delectable Crab Xacuti. The crabs are cooked in a rich, aromatic masala paste made from roasted spices, coconut, and a hint of tamarind. The dish strikes a beautiful balance between the sweetness of the crab and the bold, fiery flavours of Goan cuisine.
Kerala Njandu Curry:
Kerala, famous for its serene backwaters, offers a mouthwatering Njandu Curry made with fresh crabs. The curry is prepared with a fragrant blend of spices, including black pepper, turmeric, and fennel seeds, along with coconut milk for a creamy finish. The result is a heavenly crab curry that perfectly complements the coastal flavours of Kerala.
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Mangalorean Crab Sukka:
Mangalore, a coastal city in Karnataka, presents its signature Crab Sukka. This dry dish features crabs cooked in a medley of spices like red chilli, coriander, cumin, and coconut. The crabs are pan-fried until they absorb all the rich flavours, resulting in a delightful combination of spiciness and tenderness.
Maharashtrian Kolambi Bhaat:
In Maharashtra, the coastal cuisine delights with the Kolambi Bhaat, a flavourful crab rice dish. The crabs are cooked with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, along with onions, tomatoes, and rice. The result is a delightful one-pot meal that showcases the natural sweetness of the crab meat.
Tamil Nadu Nandu Varuval:
Tamil Nadu offers the delectable Nandu Varuval, a spicy crab fry that packs a punch. The crabs are marinated in a tangy mixture of chilli powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and lemon juice, then pan-fried until they turn crispy and golden. This dish is a perfect blend of spicy and crunchy textures.
Odia Crab Kalia:
From the eastern state of Odisha comes the scrumptious Crab Kalia. The crabs are cooked in a rich gravy made from a blend of aromatic spices, onions, tomatoes, and yoghourt. The dish is known for its indulgent flavours and tender crab meat that melts in your mouth.
Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking to explore the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, these crab recipes are sure to transport you to the enchanting coastal regions of India.