Flower Crab (Portunus pelagicus), also known as Blue Swimmer Crab, is a popular and sought-after variety of crab in Malaysia. This species is known for its sweet, tender meat, particularly in the claws and legs. The name “flower crab” comes from the colorful patterns on its shell, which resemble floral designs. It is commonly found in the coastal waters of Malaysia, where it thrives in sandy or muddy environments.
A 1kg portion of flower crab typically provides several crabs, depending on their size, and can be used in a variety of traditional Malaysian dishes.
Popular Ways to Prepare Malaysia Flower Crab (1kg):
- Chili Crab (Ketam Cili)
Chili crab is a signature Malaysian dish, where the crabs are stir-fried in a flavorful, spicy chili sauce made from fresh red chilies, garlic, ginger, and a blend of sauces (like ketchup and oyster sauce). The sauce is rich, tangy, and spicy, and the crabs soak up all the flavors, making for a deliciously messy, finger-licking dish. It is often served with mantou (steamed buns) to dip in the sauce.
- Flower Crab in Black Pepper Sauce
A variation of the chili crab dish is the black pepper crab, where the crabs are cooked in a savory black pepper sauce. The black pepper adds a bold, peppery heat to the dish, balanced by a combination of butter and garlic. This preparation is both aromatic and satisfying, with the tender crab meat complementing the sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Flower Crab
One of the simplest and healthiest ways to enjoy flower crab is to steam it. The crabs are cleaned, placed in a steamer, and steamed until they turn a bright orange. The natural sweetness of the crab meat is enhanced by just a sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of soy sauce or garlic butter. This preparation allows the flavor of the fresh crab to shine through.
- Flower Crab Soup (Sup Ketam)
Crab soup is another popular Malaysian dish, where the flower crab is simmered with ginger, garlic, lemongrass, and herbs. The result is a flavorful, fragrant broth that captures the essence of the crab. Some variations include the addition of coconut milk or tomatoes for a creamier, richer soup.
- Flower Crab with Salted Egg
A decadent and flavorful preparation of flower crab is salted egg crab. The crabs are stir-fried in a rich, creamy sauce made with salted egg yolks, butter, cream, and curry leaves. The salted egg sauce coats the crab meat, creating a rich, savory flavor that is both indulgent and addictive.
- Crab Fried Rice (Nasi Goreng Ketam)
Crab fried rice is a delicious one-dish meal where the meat from flower crab is added to fried rice. The crab meat is mixed with vegetables, egg, and a variety of seasonings, resulting in a savory and satisfying dish. It’s a great way to use leftover crab meat or to create a quick, flavorful meal.
- Flower Crab in Curry (Kari Ketam)
Curry crab is another Malaysian classic where the flower crabs are cooked in a rich, spicy curry made with a base of coconut milk, turmeric, chili, and other aromatic spices. The crab absorbs the flavors of the curry, creating a hearty, flavorful dish that pairs well with rice.
- Flower Crab Tempura
Tempura flower crab is a light, crispy preparation where the crab is coated in a batter and deep-fried until golden brown. The crispy texture contrasts with the sweet and tender crab meat, making it a delicious appetizer or side dish. It is often served with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
- Flower Crab Salad (Kerabu Ketam)
A refreshing dish made with crab meat, flower crab salad is a popular choice during hot weather. The crab meat is typically combined with fresh herbs, vegetables like cucumber and tomato, and a tangy dressing made of lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. This salad is light, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors.
Nutritional Benefits:
Flower crab is a great source of high-quality protein and is low in fat. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and iodine. The omega-3 fatty acids found in crab are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Conclusion:
Flower Crab is a versatile and delicious seafood option that can be prepared in many different ways to suit a variety of tastes. From the rich and spicy chili crab to the light and healthy steamed crab, flower crabs are perfect for creating a variety of dishes that highlight their sweet, tender meat. Whether served in a savory curry, a refreshing salad, or simply steamed, flower crabs are a popular choice for seafood lovers in Malaysia.