Peranakan Spicy Crab Salad

Ingredients

In the original Cajun cuisine, Crabmeat Ravigote is typically served as a cold salad with a tangy dressing. In the Peranakan adaptation, the dish is infused with the bold flavors of Peranakan cuisine, incorporating spices like chili, ginger, and garlic. The dressing is also modified to include Peranakan ingredients such as lime juice and a blend of aromatic herbs. The Peranakan version of the dish adds a unique twist to the original, infusing it with the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. We alse have the original recipe for Crabmeat Ravigote, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) crabmeat, cooked and shredded 500g (1.1 lb) crabmeat, cooked and shredded
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 red chilies, thinly sliced 2 red chilies, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the crabmeat, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and red chilies.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, palm sugar, and salt.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the crabmeat mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the Peranakan Spicy Crab Salad chilled, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Crabmeat — Ensure that the crabmeat is cooked and shredded before adding it to the salad. Remove any shells or cartilage to ensure a smooth texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few drops of Peranakan chili sauce to the dressing.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili according to your preference.
• Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for an added touch of freshness.
• Garnish with crushed peanuts for a crunchy texture.
• This salad can be enjoyed as a filling for lettuce wraps or served with steamed rice for a heartier meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Peranakan Spicy Crab Salad chilled as an appetizer or a light main course. It pairs well with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the zesty dressing will make the dish visually appealing.