Authentic Negombo Style Coconut Crab Curry

Ingredients

• Crab: 1x 500-600g lagoon mud crab per person, yielding approximately 150g of white meat and 50-60g of brown meat.
• 3cm Sri Lankan cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 whole cardamom pods, crushed
• 2cm fresh ginger, finely chopped
• 4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 12cm pandanus leaf (optional)
• ½ large red onion, sliced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 35 curry leaves (fresh or dried)
• 1 heaped tsp red chilli powder
• 1 level tsp turmeric powder
• 1 rounded tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 green chillies, sliced diagonally with seeds
• 1 lime, quartered for garnish
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 200ml coconut milk

Instructions

1. To Prepare the Crab, Humanely put the crab in the freezer for 45-60 minutes to desensitize and Remove the front claws, discard the gills (feathery parts), clean out the brown meat as desired, and cut the crab into quarters, cracking the claws to allow flavors to penetrate.

2. Heat oil in a wok on high heat.

3. Fry ginger and garlic for 1 minute.

4. Add cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, cooking for 2 minutes.

5. Add pandanus leaf and curry leaves, stir for 2 minutes.

6. Stir in onions, turmeric, chilli powder, and salt, cooking each for 30 seconds.

7. Add tomatoes and green chillies, stir for 30 seconds each.

8. Add the crab, stir to coat with the mixture, and add 1 tbsp water. Cover and cook on high for 15 minutes.

9. Stir, reduce heat by ¼, add another 1 tbsp water, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.

10. Continue cooking for 10 minutes after reducing the heat further by ¼.

11. Stir in coconut milk and simmer without the lid until the gravy reaches the desired consistency.

12. Garnish with a squeeze of lime, and pair with stir-fried okra or drumsticks, red rice, and a salad for a wholesome meal.

This Negombo Coconut Crab Curry encapsulates the essence of Sri Lankan coastal cuisine, blending aromatic spices with rich coconut milk to elevate the flavor of fresh crab. Best enjoyed with heritage red rice and a side of vegetables, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers seeking a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. With each bite, you’ll savor the deep flavors and vibrant spices, making it a true culinary delight!