Northwest Dungeness Crab Curry Recipe

Name: Northwest Dungeness Crab Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 (1 1/2 lb) live dungeness crabs; 2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds; 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorn; 2 tablespoons bright red sweet paprika; 1/2 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 4 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds; 1 medium onion, peeled and sliced into thin half-moons; 5 garlic cloves, cut into thin slivers; 2 cups water; 2 (14 ounce) cans coconut milk

Servings: persons

2 (1 1/2 lb) live dungeness crabs
2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorn
2 tablespoons bright red sweet paprika
1/2 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 medium onion, peeled and sliced into thin half-moons
5 garlic cloves, cut into thin slivers
2 cups water
2 (14 ounce) cans coconut milk

1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2
Drop in the crabs and cook until they stop moving, about 3-4 minutes.
3
Remove the crabs from the pot and cool.
4
When they are cool enough to handle, pull of and discard the top shell.
5
Scrape the insides clean with a small spoon.
6
Remove the spongy lungs on both sides of the body.
7
With a heavy knife, cut the crabs in quarters and crack the claws; set aside.
8
Heat a small frying pan over medium heat.
9
Toast the coriander seeds and peppercorns, stirring constantly, for 1 minute, then grind finely in a spice mill or coffee grinder.
10
Place in a bowl and add the paprika, cayenne and turmeric; set aside.
11
Heat the oil over medium heat in a frying pan or pot that will be able to accommodate the crab pieces.
12
Fry the black mustard seeds until they pop.
13
Add the onions and garlic and cook until lightly browned.
14
Stir in the spice mixture and the water.
15
Bring to a boil, and then simmer until the mixture is reduced by half.
16
Add the coconut milk and bring to boil.
17
Season with salt and add the crab.
18
Cook for 5 minutes, turning the pieces over to ensure even cooking.
19
Remove from the heat and serve.

386

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 (1 1/2 lb) live dungeness crabs, 2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds, 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorn, 2 tablespoons bright red sweet paprika, and more.

Yes, Northwest Dungeness Crab Curry falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Northwest Dungeness Crab Curry

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions