Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs of fresh crab, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 6 cups of water
- 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
- 4 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of sugar
- 1 tsp of tamarind paste
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- 1 tsp of shrimp paste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the crab pieces, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the crab is cooked through.
2. Remove the crab pieces from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and discard the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend the garlic, shallots, red chilies, and shrimp paste until smooth.
4. In the same pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the blended mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the strained broth back into the pot and bring to a boil. Add the salt, sugar, and tamarind paste. Stir well.
6. Add the coconut milk and stir well. Add the crab pieces back into the pot and cook for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Shrimp can be substituted for crab
- Lime juice can be substituted for tamarind paste
- Chicken broth can be substituted for water
Variations:
- Add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans
- Add more chilies for a spicier soup
- Use different seafood such as shrimp or clams
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh crab for the best flavor
- Be careful not to overcook the crab, as it can become tough
- Adjust the seasoning to taste
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced red chilies
Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Crusty bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables
- Fried tofu
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the crab is cooked through before serving
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator
Food history:
- Padang cuisine is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, often using ingredients such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and coconut milk.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, savory, and slightly sweet
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of vegetables
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Indonesian