How to Make Thai-Style Stir-Fried Crab with Curry Powder
Thai-style stir-fried crab with curry powder is a delightful dish that combines the sweet, tender meat of crab with an aromatic blend of spices. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings the essence of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen. Follow these simple steps to create a savory and fragrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 kg fresh crab, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies, minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the crab. Start by cleaning the crab thoroughly, removing the shell, gills, and any other unwanted parts. Cut the crab into manageable pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the oil. In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and bird's eye chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the curry powder. Sprinkle the curry powder into the mix and stir quickly to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the oil.
Step 4: Cook the crab. Add the crab pieces to the wok and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, ensuring all the crab is coated with the spices. The crab should start turning a bright orange color.
Step 5: Incorporate liquids. Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and coconut milk. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the crab meat is thoroughly cooked and infused with the curry flavors.
Step 6: Add vegetables. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and chopped green onions, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender yet still crisp.
Step 7: Serve. Once everything is well combined and cooked to your liking, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Thai-style stir-fried crab with curry powder pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice. You can also serve it with fresh lime wedges on the side to enhance the flavors further.
Tips for Success
- For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the crab in a mixture of soy sauce and curry powder for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If fresh crab is not available, you can substitute it with cooked crab meat.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of bird's eye chilies according to your preference.
This Thai-style stir-fried crab with curry powder is not just a meal but a culinary experience that showcases vibrant flavors and textures. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and share the warmth of Thai cuisine in your home!