Kurle Ambat (goan Crab Curry)

Kurle Ambat, also known as Goan Crab Curry, is a traditional dish from the Goan Catholic Cuisine. This flavorful curry is made with fresh crab and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a delicious and comforting meal.

Non Vegetarian Main Course Goan Catholic Goan Cuisine Crab Curry Seafood Spicy
Kurle Ambat (goan Crab Curry)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg fresh crab, cleaned and cracked
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1/2 cup grated coconut
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  2. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for a few minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
  3. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for a minute to release the flavors.
  4. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  5. Once the masala is cooked, add the cleaned crab pieces and grated coconut. Mix well to coat the crab with the masala.
  6. Pour in enough water to cover the crab pieces. Add salt to taste and bring the curry to a gentle boil.
  7. Simmer the curry for about 15-20 minutes or until the crab is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
  8. Stir in the tamarind paste and garam masala. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
40 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
12g
Protein
25g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Wooden spoon Measuring spoons Knife Cutting board

Tools

Pot Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Kurle Ambat is best served hot with steamed rice or crusty bread. It pairs well with a side of tangy mango pickle or a cooling cucumber salad.

Tips & tricks

When buying fresh crab, choose ones that feel heavy for their size and have a sweet, briny smell. It's best to consume crab the same day it's purchased for optimal freshness and flavor.

Cost

$20