Kakrar Jhal (Bengali Crab Korma)
Overview
Kakrar Jhal, a delightful Bengali dish, features tender crabs cooked in a fragrant, spice-laden curry with mustard oil, fresh coriander, and a rich blend of aromatic spices. This hearty and flavorful crab korma is a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice, making it a special dish for lunch or dinner. The delicate sweetness of the crab complements the piquant heat from green and red chilies, while the mustard oil adds depth to the sauce. Whether you’re craving a traditional Bengali seafood dish or looking to try something new, Kakrar Jhal is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crabs (cleaned) | 8 pieces |
| Onions (pasted) | 2 medium |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 3 teaspoons |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 3 tablespoons |
| Green Chilli Paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Red Chilli Paste | 2 teaspoons |
| White Mustard Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1/2 cup (chopped) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Oil (for cooking) | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
-
Shallow Fry the Crabs
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a large pan over medium heat. Clean the crabs thoroughly and season them with a pinch of salt and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder. Shallow fry the crabs in the oil until they turn a vibrant red color. Once fried, remove them from the pan and set them aside. -
Prepare the Spice Mixture
In the same pan, add the remaining mustard oil. Once heated, add the onion paste and fry until it turns a light brown color. Then, add the ginger garlic paste and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell dissipates. -
Cook the Masala Base
Add 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir well for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom. Next, add the green chili paste, red chili paste, tomato puree, and mustard paste. Fry the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure that the tomatoes are well cooked and the flavors meld together. -
Simmer the Crabs
Add salt and sugar to the masala base. Then, gently place the fried crabs back into the pan. Stir well for about 2 minutes, ensuring that the crabs are coated with the spice mixture. Add a small amount of water to the pan, just enough to cover the crabs. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes, or until the crabs are cooked through and the spices have blended well. -
Finishing Touches
Once the crabs are cooked and the flavors are well absorbed, add 1 teaspoon of garam masala powder and fresh coriander leaves. Stir well, and let the dish simmer for another minute. Finally, turn off the heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Kakrar Jhal is traditionally served with steamed rice, which helps balance the rich and flavorful curry.
- Pair it with a side of green salad or roti for a complete Bengali-inspired meal.
- For those who enjoy a bit more heat, add an extra green chili paste or some chopped fresh chilies while cooking.
Additional Tips
- Crab Selection: Opt for fresh, meaty crabs for the best flavor. Ensure that the crabs are cleaned thoroughly before cooking.
- Mustard Oil: Mustard oil gives this dish its distinctive Bengali flavor. If you don’t have mustard oil, you can substitute with vegetable or canola oil, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The amount of chili paste can be adjusted according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the green and red chili paste.
Enjoy your Kakrar Jhal (Bengali Crab Korma) as part of a traditional Bengali feast, or serve it as a luxurious treat for any special occasion. This dish brings the essence of Bengali coastal cuisine right to your table!
