Kerala Style Crab and Coconut Stir Fry, also known as “Njandu Thoran” in Malayalam, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of crab meat with the creaminess of coconut and the warmth of spices.
This dish is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste.
The Crab and Coconut Stir Fry has a unique balance of sweetness from the crab meat, tanginess from the coconut, and a kick of heat from the spices. The aroma is further enhanced by curry leaves, mustard seeds, and other fragrant spices.
Ingredients
The ingredients used in this dish are simple and easily available:
- Fresh crab meat
- Grated coconut
- Coconut oil
- Onions
- Green chillies
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Curry leaves
- Spices (turmeric, coriander, cumin, chili powder)
Preparation Steps
The dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick meal.
- Cook the Crab:
- In a vessel, add crab, a pinch of salt, pepper powder, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1/2 cup of water.
- Crack the claws and shells to release flavors.
- Cover and cook for 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onions, followed by ginger, garlic, green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the Coconut:
- Stir in the grated coconut and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Combine with Crab:
- Add the cooked crab meat to the skillet and gently mix with the coconut and spices.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add Spices:
- Stir in chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
- Cook for another minute until the spices are well blended.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh curry leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is packed with essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Crab meat is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Tips for the Best Njandu Thoran
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference by varying the amount of chili powder.
- Always use coconut oil for an authentic Kerala flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the crab meat to prevent it from becoming tough.
- Experiment with different spices to personalize the dish.
Kerala Style Crab and Coconut Stir Fry is a delicious and aromatic dish, perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of sweet crab meat, toasted coconut, and warm spices creates an authentic Kerala-style dish that’s sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Kerala in your own kitchen!
