Crab Masala semi-dry | Nandu Pirattal | Crab gravy recipe | Nandu Masala

Weekend cold infections are usually treated with chicken soup or spicy crab recipes. Though Zinc in crab helps in healing the symptoms of common cold, pepper and coconut added in this recipe strengthen the fight for faster relief.

Calcium and Iron rich crab is good for Pregnant ladies and feeding moms. As shellfish pose a threat for water pollutants and mercury(though it is low), it is advisable to take in less quantity. Also, crab generates heat and increases body temperature and so is advised to consume in moderation during pregnancy. Opt for fresh crab, cleaned and fully cooked at home.

Calcium in crab is good for the growing bones and teeth of kids. Break the shell and feed the inner meat to children above 1 year of age(If the child has no food allergies).

Protein and Zinc rich crab is said to boost Male fertility. This is a traditional Dads-to-be diet.

Preparation

1.Buy medium-sized crab. In shop, they usually take out the waste parts if you ask them to cut in the centre to make 2 pieces each. Rinse the pieces once or twice. Take each piece and remove the pale green & pale yellow portions as shown below. Do not take out the yolk-like yellow portions as they are edible fats.2.At the backside, remove the plastic-like transparent skin as shown below. Again wash the pieces well and soak it in turmeric powder added water for 3 mins. Again rinse once and strain the water.3.Grind together pepper, jeera, saunf, garlic, green chilli and coconut. Add 1/2 cup of water and grind to a paste.4.In a bowl, add ground paste, turmeric powder, salt , chilli powder and 1.5 cups water.5.Add crab and keep it marinated for 30 mins. In hot oil, add mustard seeds. Once spluttered,  add few curry leaves.6.Add marinated crab along with masala. Cook covered in medium flame for 15 mins.7.Crab would have been cooked in 20 mins. Then you can open the lid and cook till your desired consistency. I have cooked till oil separates and the gravy becomes semi-dry.

Serve as a main dish or side-dish… Hone your teeth for a crunchy treat !!

Tips/Tricks

• You shall increase chilli powder/pepper/green chilli to spice up.
• Once it nicely bubbles up, you shall taste and add extra chilli powder or pepper powder if required.
• You shall switch off before 5 mins if you want some more gravy.
• Small crabs won’t have much flesh. Big crabs will be hard to bite. Opt for medium fleshy crabs.