Recipe Name:
Khekda Masala (Crab Masala)
Prep Time:
40 minutes
Serves:
4 people
Description:
Khekda Masala is a flavorful seafood dish from Maharashtra, featuring crabs cooked in a spicy and aromatic masala. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of crab meat combined with a rich blend of spices, onions, tomatoes, and coconut milk, creating a delightful and savory curry.
Why You Will Love It:
You will love Khekda Masala for its bold flavors and tender crab meat cooked in a luscious masala base. The combination of spices and coconut milk enhances the taste of the crab, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and perfect for special occasions.
Key Ingredient:
Fresh Crabs
Ingredients:
Khekda Masala (Crab Masala)
Prep Time:
40 minutes
Serves:
4 people
Description:
Khekda Masala is a flavorful seafood dish from Maharashtra, featuring crabs cooked in a spicy and aromatic masala. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of crab meat combined with a rich blend of spices, onions, tomatoes, and coconut milk, creating a delightful and savory curry.
Why You Will Love It:
You will love Khekda Masala for its bold flavors and tender crab meat cooked in a luscious masala base. The combination of spices and coconut milk enhances the taste of the crab, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and perfect for special occasions.
Key Ingredient:
Fresh Crabs
Ingredients:
⦁ 4-5 medium-sized crabs, cleaned and cracked
⦁ 2 onions, finely chopped
⦁ 2 tomatoes, chopped
⦁ 1/2 cup grated coconut
⦁ 1/2 cup coconut milk
⦁ 2 tablespoons oil
⦁ 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
⦁ 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
⦁ 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
⦁ 2 tablespoons Nalini Kaku’s Khekda Masala
⦁ 1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
⦁ 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
⦁ Salt to taste
⦁ Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
⦁ Prepare the Crabs: Clean the crabs thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Crack the crab claws and legs slightly for better flavor absorption.
⦁ Cook the Onions and Spices: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they start to splutter, add chopped onions. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
⦁ Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add ginger-garlic paste to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
⦁ Add Tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
⦁ Prepare the Masala Paste: In a blender, grind together grated coconut and Nalini Kaku’s Khekda Masala to form a smooth paste. Add this paste to the pan and mix well.
⦁ Add Spices and Coconut Milk: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and oil starts to separate.
⦁ Add Crabs: Add the cleaned crabs to the pan. Mix gently with the masala to coat the crabs evenly.
⦁ Simmer and Cook: Pour coconut milk into the pan. Stir well to combine with the masala and crabs. Bring to a gentle simmer.
⦁ Cover and Cook: Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the crabs are cooked through and the masala has thickened.
⦁ Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and spice levels as needed.
⦁ Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or bhakri (Indian flatbread).
Recipe Notes:
⦁ Adjust the spiciness according to your preference.
⦁ Use fresh crabs for the best flavor and texture.
⦁ This dish pairs well with a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
Enjoy the rich and flavorful Khekda Masala, a delightful seafood curry that celebrates the essence of Maharashtrian cuisine!