Nava's Masala Crab: A Spicy Delight for Seafood Lovers

Having crab at home is truly a feast for us. It's not something we indulge in regularly, but every few months, the craving for a delectable crab dish arises. In our Indian family, we particularly relish crab prepared in a thick masala or curry gravy - a tantalizing blend of spices that ignites our taste buds. When it comes to cooking crab, I reserve the legs or claws for a flavorful Indian crab soup, while the bodies take center stage in a fiery and aromatic dish. Pairing these two preparations together with a simple stir fry completes our seafood extravaganza.

Now, let's dive right into Nava's Masala Crab! Before we get started, here are the ingredients you'll need:

 

Plain chili powder - as needed

Crushed pepper - as needed

1 ½ tsp coriander powder

½ tsp cumin powder

½ tsp fennel powder

Water (to make a thick masala paste)

4 crabs - cleaned and lightly coated with turmeric powder

2 tomatoes - chopped

2 green chilies - sliced (optional)

1 red chili - sliced (optional)

2 bay leaves, cinnamon, star anise & cloves

2 medium onions - chopped

½ tbsp ginger paste

½ tbsp garlic paste

Salt to taste

¼ cup oil (as needed)

Lime juice (if desired)

Now, let's proceed with the cooking method:

Heat oil in a pan.

Add ginger paste, garlic paste, onions, and spices.

Stir and cook until the onions become soft.

Mix the masala paste with some water to form a thick consistency.

Add the masala paste to the pan and stir well.

Incorporate the green chilies, red chili, and chopped tomatoes into the mixture.

Cook over medium heat, allowing the ingredients to blend and form a thick masala paste.

Add the cleaned crabs to the pan and stir gently to coat them in the masala.

Pour water to create extra gravy and add salt according to taste.

Allow the crab to cook.

Once the crab is cooked, turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Let the dish sit for a while to allow the flavors to infuse into the crab.

 

Now, you're ready to savor the delightful Nava's Masala Crab. 

Let the aromatic spices and succulent crab transport your taste buds to new heights of culinary bliss. Enjoy!

(Note: If you prefer a tangy touch, you can squeeze some lime juice over the dish before serving)