Crab
Crabs are more than just a scientific curiosity - they offer a plethora of culinary delights, too. The crab’s succulent flesh, which is rightly praised for its tenderness, versatility, and distinct flavor, can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic crab cakes to the timeless crab bisque. As well, its delectable meat has been a staple in a number of cultural cuisines, such as Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine, where it is prized as a key ingredient in iconic dishes like Peking duck and Malaysian roti.
Beyond their delightful flavors, crabs are a crucial fixture of the ocean’s ecosystem. As omnivores, their scavenging habits keep their habitats clean and healthy by regulating food sources for aquatic creatures. Beyond their immediate contributions to the environment, these crustaceans also act as indicators of changes in the ocean’s climate due to the sensitivity of their physiology.
It goes without saying that this multifaceted species deserves our respect - and protection! Even though they may be small, their contributions to the seas and to our daily lives are far-reaching and significant. To honor the integral role that crabs play, let us all make a concerted effort to seek out sustainable sources of seafood and treat our marine life with the utmost respect.
Crab dishes
A selection of Crab dishes.
Black pepper crab
Ahh, the grand Black Pepper Crab – a piquant and sumptuous delicacy beloved by seafood connoisseurs the world over. From it's East Asian origins to modern day fine-dining kitchens simmering up new creations, there is no denying its power to tantalise palates and stimulate tastebuds.
Black pepper crab
Chilli crab
Chilli crab is a popular dish in Singapore and Malaysia, originating from Southern China. It consists of a crab that has been steamed in its shell and then stir-fried with a sweet, savoury and spicy sauce that usually contains tomato, chilli, garlic and sometimes pineapple. Its distinctive flavour has made it a staple of many Southeast Asian restaurants, as well as a firm favourite amongst seafood lovers.
Chilli crab
Corn crab soup
Ah, the divine Corn Crab Soup. A concoction of creamy goodness; sweet, succulent and tantalizing on the palate. Every spoonful a sensory adventure that delights the tongue and tantalizes the taste-buds. It's as if some benevolent culinary deity created it with a culinary wand and a sprinkle of magical ingredients.
Corn crab soup
Crab ice cream
As unique and delicious as seafood may be, it might feel strange to put them in a recipe like ice cream. But that's exactly why the Crab Ice Cream is such a special dish – it takes an unlikely combination of ingredients and turns it into something extraordinary.
Crab ice cream
Crab rangoon
As I savor my most beloved dish, Crab Rangoon, I'm struck by its unique character. The combination of succulent crabmeat and crispy, fried wrappers meld together to create a heavenly bite, where individual flavors are brought together to create something that is so much greater than the sum of its parts.
Crab rangoon
Deviled crab
Deviled crab has been a treasured delicacy for gourmands of the Chesapeake Bay area for centuries. It combines succulent crabmeat with a medley of complementary spices to create an exquisite flavor profile that is both exotic and comforting. While the dish may seem simple, the complexity of its flavors make it an absolute must-try for seafood lovers.
Deviled crab
Crab rolls
There's something about crab rolls that just can't be denied - they're simply a joy. With their light and flavourful texture, crab rolls are a perfect way to add some variety to any meal. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as part of a larger feast, these succulent treats are sure to be a hit!
Crab rolls
Kare rajungan
If you're looking for an exotic culinary experience, give kare rajungan a try. This Indonesian dish is a tantalizingly delicious blend of succulent prawns, coconut milk, and spices, all cooked together to create a truly unique flavor combination.
Kare rajungan
Ketam Masak Lemak Cili Api campur Nenas
Nestled amidst tangy and tart, the Ketam Masak Lemak Cili Api campur Nenas is a fusion of flavors seducing all five senses. The succulent crab meat, nestled in a fragrant coconut-based sauce accented by fiery chilies and sweet pineapple, creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ketam Masak Lemak Cili Api campur Nenas
Kani Cream Korokke
Kani Cream Korokke, the succulent Japanese deep-fried culinary delight, is a veritable treat for the taste buds. Prepared with a combination of delicate crab meat, creamy mayonnaise, potatoes, and eggs, this scrumptious creation is sure to tantalize.
Kani Cream Korokke
Pastel de jaiba
With its succulent, sweet and spicy flavors, the iconic dish of Chile known as Pastel de jaiba has been delighting local tastebuds for centuries. This beloved seafood pie is a true gastronomic experience, with its tantalizing combination of buttery crust, deliciously creamy filling and fresh, juicy crabmeat that melts in your mouth.
Pastel de jaiba
Taba ng talangka
The succulent, salty delight of taba ng talangka is a truly unique gastronomic experience. Derived from the freshly caught crabs of Southeast Asia, this delectable dish contains the combined flavors of garlic, onion, and vinegar, with a distinctive sourness stemming from the acidity of the crab innards. It is a specialty in many parts of the Philippines, where it is served as a relish for many meals.
Taba ng talangka
Crab
Crab is a seafood delicacy that has been enjoyed by seafood connoisseurs for centuries. With its tender, succulent meat, special and versatile flavour profile, and distinctive aroma, crab is an excellent and highly sought-after culinary addition. When it comes to preparing crab dishes, there are a variety of options available, however, some of the most popular pairings include creamy pastas, citrusy salads, fruit-based sauces and savoury garlic butter.
Starting with the pasta dish, creamy crab pasta is one of the most beloved dishes that showcase this tasty seafood. By combining the savoury flavours of fresh crabmeat and cream, this dish creates an incredibly delicious and indulgent indulgence. The added crunch of toasted breadcrumbs or freshly grated Parmesan cheese also elevates this seafood staple.
Salads are another common way to enjoy crab, as the delicate texture of the meat pairs wonderfully with tangy citrus fruits and light summer greens. Whether you prefer a classic crab salad with tomatoes, olives, and capers or you opt for the slightly more adventurous combination of crab, avocado, and mango, these salads are always a great way to enjoy this special seafood.
Fruit-based sauces are also a tasty way to enjoy crab. The sweetness of the sauce combines perfectly with the briny bite of this delicately flavoured seafood. It also provides a great contrast to the garlic butter, which is often served with steamed or boiled crab. The creamy, nutty flavour of the butter enhances the flavour of the crab, creating the ultimate seafood feast.
For those looking for something different, adding unusual ingredients like pickled carrots, kimchi, or even horseradish can create interesting and dynamic results. These alternative combinations can be added to pasta, salads, and sauces, making them far from boring.
In order to get the most out of this culinary star, it is important to use fresh crab. This can be found in markets, restaurants and online retailers, although frozen options may be slightly more cost effective. No matter which version is used, cooking crab dishes can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for those who appreciate seafood.
So, if you're looking for a seafood delicacy that has the versatility to create amazing dishes from simple combinations, then crab is definitely the way to go. From creamy pastas and light summer salads to unique sauces and savoury garlic butter, crab can elevate even the simplest meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.
History of Crab
Crab food is one of the most beloved cuisines around the globe. While its origins are rooted in a multitude of cultures, feasting on sumptuous seafood has been an integral part of the human diet for centuries.
The history of crab food dates back to ancient times when it was first consumed by Babylonians and ancient Egyptians. The natives of these regions were quite creative with the ingredients they used to prepare their meals, taking advantage of what nature had to offer. This included salted fish and other forms of seafood, including crabs, which was one of their main sources of sustenance.
In traditional Chinese culture, consuming crabs was not only seen as a delicacy but also a way to demonstrate affluence. In fact, it was an integral part of the food culture for both the rich and the poor alike. The Chinese people have long believed that the nutritious benefits afforded by crabs helped them to live longer and healthier lives.
In the western world, crab food began to gain popularity in the 18th century. As the demand for seafood increased, fishermen began to catch more species and introduce them to new markets. Since then, crabs have gained increasing popularity, particularly in coastal regions where seafood is plentiful.
Today, crab food is enjoyed around the world, from the shores of the Mediterranean to the Pacific Northwest. There are a number of different dishes, ranging from the classic boiled crab to intricate recipes featuring fresh herbs and spices. Regardless of the recipe, this scrumptious seafood delight is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of palates.