Sweet and Spicy Crab with Eggs in Oyster Sauce
Ingredients:
- 3 crabs
- Salt, to taste
- Sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis), to taste
- Tomato or chili sauce, to taste
- Oyster sauce, to taste
- Palm sugar (Gula Jawa), to taste
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Fried shallots, for garnish
- Cooking oil
- Chicken or duck eggs
- 1 cup water
For the Spice Paste:
- 4 shallots
- 2 cloves garlic
- 11 Thai bird chilies
- 3 red chilies
- 1 cm ginger, sliced
- Coriander seeds, to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Crabs:
- Boil the crabs in salted water until they turn a vibrant red. Drain and set aside.
-
-
Make the Spice Paste:
- Blend together shallots, garlic, Thai bird chilies, red chilies, ginger, and coriander seeds until smooth.
-
Cook the Spice Paste:
- Heat cooking oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato or chili sauce to your taste, followed by the oyster sauce to enhance the authentic flavor.
-
Create the Sauce:
- Pour in 1 cup of water. Season with salt and palm sugar to taste. Continue to cook, stirring until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened.
-
Incorporate the Eggs:
- Add the eggs to the sauce, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and the eggs are cooked through.
-
Add the Crabs:
- Introduce the boiled crabs into the skillet. Stir well to coat the crabs with the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld. Add sweet soy sauce to taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
-
Final Touches:
- Garnish with chopped green onions and fried shallots for added flavor and texture.
-
Serve:
- Serve the crab hot, straight from the skillet, to enjoy the full depth of flavors.
This dish combines the rich umami of oyster sauce with the sweetness and heat of a robust spice paste, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or a hearty meal.
