Hello, my Okra Pantry family!!! The summer months are approaching, and we have to start preparing the grills and stovetops for those seasoned seafood and barbeque ribs dishes. This spicy seasoned crab dish is one of our favorites summer dishes for parties, backyard BBQ and more relaxing occasions with family and friends.
Spicy seasoned crab is a culinary delight that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect blend of heat and flavor. Typically, the seasoning blend can include a combination of various spices such as cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and sometimes a hint of sweet spices like allspice or cinnamon, depending on the regional recipe or personal preference.
The preparation of spicy seasoned crab often involves coating the crab with a dry rub or marinating it in a blend of spices and other ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar to enhance its natural flavors. The seasoned crab can then be cooked in various ways, such as steaming, baking, grilling, or frying, each method infusing the crustacean with a distinct texture and depth of flavor.
Eaten as a main course or a tantalizing appetizer, spicy seasoned crab is a favorite in coastal regions and among seafood enthusiasts everywhere. It’s typically paired with sides that complement its robust flavor like a refreshing coleslaw, buttered corn, or a simple salad. Additionally, a cold beer or a crisp white wine often accompanies this dish, making it an ideal meal for social gatherings or a luxurious treat for any occasion.
If you’re looking to incorporate the flavors of Liberia into a spicy seasoned crab dish, here’s a way to give it that special Liberian twist. Liberian cuisine typically features bold flavors, with an emphasis on hot and savory spices.
Liberian-Style Spicy Seasoned Crabs
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen blue crab – cleaned and cut into halves
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
- ½ tsp dried basil leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 large chopped onions & onion powder
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp caribbean jerk marinade
- ½ tsp Tony's bold creole seasoning (optional)
- ½ tsp ginger paste (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
- 1 habanero pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- ¼ cup water
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Unpacked and defrost crabs in a large bowl with water, cleanse thoroughly for cooking.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, chicken bouillon, dried basil leaves, habanero pepper, cayenne pepper, ginger paste and Tony's bold creole seasoning. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spices become fragrant.
- Add the crabs to the pan, making sure each piece is coated with the spice mixture. Sauté the crab for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pour in the water and Caribbean jerk marinade and bring it to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the crab is fully cooked.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the crab.
- Add some steamed rice for a yummy dish lol!
Enjoy your culinary journey with this delicious Liberian-inspired spicy seasoned crab dish that combines the traditional flavors of West Africa with the distinct taste of ocean freshness!
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