Benin-style Spicy Crab Stew

Ingredients

In this Benin-inspired adaptation, we have replaced the original Italian ingredients with local Benin flavors. The dish now features a blend of traditional Benin spices, such as chili peppers, coriander, and ginger, to infuse the stew with a distinctively West African taste. Additionally, we have incorporated local herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavors and create a more authentic Benin culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Granseola alla veneziana, so you can check it out.

• 2 lbs (900g) fresh crab, cleaned and cracked 2 lbs (900g) fresh crab, cleaned and cracked
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped 2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (470ml) fish or vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) fish or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes and scotch bonnet peppers. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
4. 4.
   Add the ground coriander, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Gently add the cleaned and cracked crab to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through.
7. 7.
   Stir in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. 9.
   Serve the Spicy Crab Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Crab — Ensure the crab is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the stew. Remove any shells or cartilage to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds before chopping.
• Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more broth or coconut milk, depending on your preference.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the stew before serving.
• Serve the Spicy Crab Stew with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• To enhance the presentation, garnish the stew with a sprinkle of freshly chopped scallions in addition to the cilantro.

Serving advice

Serve the Benin-style Spicy Crab Stew hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to complete the meal. Provide spoons and napkins for easy enjoyment.

Presentation advice

Present the Spicy Crab Stew in a vibrant and colorful bowl to showcase the rich red hues of the stew. Garnish it with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness. Serve it alongside a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to create an inviting and visually appealing presentation.