Thai Recipe : Chili Crab

This dish in Thai is called Poo Pad Prik

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs cooked crabs
  
• 3 large fresh chilies, chopped
  
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander root
  
• 3 tbsp cooking oil
  
• 1 cup water
  
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
  
• 3 scallions cut into ¾ inch pieces
  
• 1 onion, sliced
  
• 5 to 6 tbsp whole fresh coriander leaves, (reserve a few for garnish)

1. Clean crabs. Break into pieces, crackling shells on legs and claws so they’re easy to pull apart at the table. Set aside crab pieces. Arrange ingredients ready to cook.
2. Make a rough paste out of the chilies, garlic and coriander root, using either a mortar and a pestle, or a processor.
3. Heat oil in a large frypan or wok. Stir fry paste for several minutes to release flavors. Add crab pieces and briefly stir fry, coating well with the paste. Add water and bring mixture to the boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Remove lid. Add oyster and fish sauces. Stir and taste. If necessary, add more fish sauce or water to balance spicy and salty flavors.
5. Stir in shallots, onion and coriander leaves. Cook for another minute. Remove from heat and transfer to a large shallow bowl. Garnish with coriander leaves. Serve with rice or salad.