Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs of Curacha (spanner crab)
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised and chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp of ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp of turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp of Alavar sauce
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of water
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Clean the Curacha by removing the gills and intestines. Cut the crab into pieces.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the turmeric powder and Alavar sauce. Mix well.
4. Add the coconut milk, lemongrass, and water. Bring to a boil.
5. Add the Curacha pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the crab is cooked.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use other types of crab or seafood instead of Curacha.
- If you don't have Alavar sauce, you can use other types of chili sauce or hot sauce.
Variations:
- You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes.
- You can use other herbs such as basil or cilantro.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful not to overcook the crab as it can become tough and rubbery.
- You can adjust the amount of Alavar sauce according to your preference for spiciness.
- You can use fresh or frozen coconut milk.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the Curacha Alavar in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Curacha Alavar in a large bowl or platter.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro or green onions.
Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add more water or coconut milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to clean the crab thoroughly before cooking.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Curacha Alavar is a popular dish in the Philippines, particularly in the Zamboanga region. It is known for its spicy and flavorful sauce made with Alavar sauce.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, savory, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed rice and garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.
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Region: Philippine