Chettinad Crab Masala / Chettinad Nandu Masala

Crab is a tastiest sea food, high in protein and rich in omega - 3 fatty acids.  Here is a spicy treat for crab lovers from the popular chettinad cuisine!

Ingredients:

Crab - ½ kg 

Onion - 2 (Finely chopped)

Tomato - 1 (finely chopped)

Ginger garlic paste - 2 tsp

Turmeric powder - ½ tsp

Red chilli powder - 1 tsp

Corriander powder - 2 tsp

pepper powder - 1 tsp

Garam masala powder - ½ tsp

For Seasoning:

Oil – 1 to 2 tbsp

Red chillies – 1 or 2

Fennel seeds - ½ tsp

Curry leaves - 2 sprigs

To Grind:

Coconut - 3 tbsp

Saunf (Fennel Seeds) - 1 tsp

Directions:

Clean the crabs and keep aside.

Heat oil in a kadai; add all the ingredients under “To Temper”.

After it crackles, add the onions.  Saute till the colour changes; then add ginger garlic paste, tomato and salt. Saute till tomato becomes soft. 

Now add the spice powders and keep frying till the raw smell goes.

Then add crabs and mix till the masala coats well.

Close the pan with lid and allow to cook (no need to add water as crab leaves enough water to cook. If you find it dry add ½ - 1 cup of water).

Add the coconut paste to the masala while it is boiling and close the pan with lid  allow to cook till the oil floats and the mixture becomes thick in consistency.

open the lid and stir it high flame for a minute. Switch off the gas,

Garnish with coriander leaves and Serve hot.

Note:
You may adjust the water quantity and spice level to suit your taste.