Maharashtrian Crab Curry
A fiery and aromatic coastal delicacy from Maharashtra. Tender crab cooked in a rich, spicy gravy made with roasted coconut and a special blend of spices. Best enjoyed with steamed rice or bhakri.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Crab
- b.In a large bowl, combine the cleaned crab pieces with 0.5 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, and 0.5 tsp salt. Mix well to coat evenly.
- c.Gently crack the larger claws with the back of a heavy knife or pestle to allow the masala to penetrate.
- d.Set aside to marinate for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the masala.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the 'Vatan' (Roast Masala Ingredients)
- b.Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced large onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until golden brown.
- c.Add the grated dry coconut and roast, stirring continuously, for 3-4 minutes until it turns a deep, fragrant brown. Be careful not to burn it.
- d.Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, and the cinnamon stick. Roast for another minute until the spices are aromatic.
- e.Turn off the heat and let the entire mixture cool down completely.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grind the Masala Paste
- b.Once cooled, transfer the roasted mixture to a grinder jar. Add the ginger and garlic cloves.
- c.Grind to a smooth, thick paste, adding a few tablespoons of water as needed to help with grinding. This paste is the 'vatan'.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Curry Base
- b.Heat the remaining 3 tbsp of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped medium onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until translucent and soft.
- d.Add the chopped tomato and cook for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and mushy.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Sauté the Masalas
- b.Lower the heat. Add the remaining 0.5 tsp turmeric powder, remaining 1 tsp red chili powder, and 2 tbsp Malvani masala. Sauté for 30-40 seconds until fragrant.
- c.Add the ground 'vatan' paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the masala darkens and you see oil separating from the sides.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Cook the Crab and Simmer
- b.Add the marinated crab pieces to the pot. Gently toss them with the masala for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- c.Pour in 3 cups of hot water, the strained tamarind pulp, and the remaining 1 tsp of salt. Stir well.
- d.Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the crab shells turn bright orange-red and the meat is cooked through.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Let the curry rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.
- d.Serve hot with steamed rice, bhakri (sorghum flatbread), or chapati.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Using fresh, live crabs yields the most flavorful curry. If using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed.
- 2The deep brown color of the roasted coconut is key to the authentic taste and color of the curry.
- 3Do not overcook the crab, as the meat will become tough. 10-15 minutes of simmering is usually sufficient.
- 4Malvani masala is the heart of this recipe. If unavailable, you can use a mix of goda masala and extra red chili powder.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can use coconut oil for cooking.
- 6This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together overnight.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamier Curry
Add 1/2 cup of thick coconut milk in the last 5 minutes of simmering for a richer, milder gravy.
Konkani StyleKonkani Style
Use fresh grated coconut instead of dry coconut. The roasting time will be longer to remove moisture and achieve the brown color.
Extra HeatExtra Heat
Add 2-3 slit green chilies along with the tomatoes for an extra kick of spice.
With KokumWith Kokum
Substitute tamarind pulp with 4-5 pieces of dried kokum for a distinct tangy flavor common in coastal cuisine. Add it along with the hot water.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Crab meat is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and cells in the body.
Rich in Minerals
Crab is a fantastic source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and protect cells from damage.
Supports Brain Health
Containing Omega-3 fatty acids, crab meat contributes to brain health, improving memory and protecting against cognitive decline.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
The curry is flavored with spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic, which are well-known for their natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Frequently asked questions
To clean a crab, first, stun it by placing it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Then, turn it upside down and pull off the triangular flap (apron). Pry open the top shell from the back. Remove the feathery gills ('dead man's fingers') and the internal organs. Rinse the body and shell thoroughly under cold running water. You can then cut the body into halves or quarters.