Chechen-style Stuffed Crab

Ingredients

In this Chechen adaptation of the Chinese Mitten Crab, we incorporate traditional Chechen ingredients and spices to infuse the dish with the flavors of the region. The stuffing is prepared using local herbs and spices, adding a distinct Chechen twist to the recipe. Additionally, the cooking technique is modified to steam the crab, which is a common method used in Chechen cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Chinese Mitten Crab, so you can check it out.

• 4 Chinese Mitten Crabs 4 Chinese Mitten Crabs
• 1 cup (240 ml) finely chopped onions 1 cup (240 ml) finely chopped onions
• 1 cup (240 ml) finely chopped bell peppers 1 cup (240 ml) finely chopped bell peppers
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried thyme 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried dill 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the Chinese Mitten Crabs thoroughly, removing the top shell and gills. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Add the ground cumin, paprika, dried thyme, dried dill, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the stuffing mixture cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Stuff each crab with the prepared mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
6. 6.
   Place the stuffed crabs in a steamer basket and steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crab meat is cooked through.
7. 7.
   Once cooked, remove the crabs from the steamer and garnish with fresh parsley.
8. 8.
   Serve the Chechen-style Stuffed Crab hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chinese Mitten Crab — Ensure the crabs are fresh and alive before cooking. Clean them thoroughly to remove any sand or impurities.
• Bell peppers — Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a vibrant and visually appealing stuffing.
• Dried thyme and dill — Crush the dried herbs slightly before adding them to the stuffing mixture to release their flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• If Chinese Mitten Crabs are not available, you can substitute with other types of crab.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for spiciness.
• Serve the Chechen-style Stuffed Crab with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• To enhance the flavors, marinate the crab in the stuffing mixture for a few hours before steaming.
• Garnish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Chechen-style Stuffed Crab as a main course dish accompanied by traditional Chechen bread or rice. It can also be served as an appetizer for a special occasion or as part of a seafood-themed meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed crabs on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Serve them with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for an attractive presentation. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers will add visual appeal to the dish.