If you’re a seafood lover and crave bold, coastal flavors, then Crab Xec Xec is a dish that deserves a place in your kitchen. Pronounced “shek-shek,” this fiery Goan crab curry is a treat for the senses — rich in aroma, flavor, and tradition. The beauty of this dish lies in its deeply spiced coconut-based masala, which clings lovingly to the crab, making each bite a delightful burst of Goan heritage.
The good news? You don’t need to be an expert chef or travel to Goa to enjoy this culinary masterpiece. Here’s how you can make Crab Xec Xec at home with ease.
Ingredients Required
For the Masala Paste:
- 1 cup grated fresh coconut
- 6–8 dried red chilies (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 small piece of tamarind (or 1 tsp tamarind paste)
- 3–4 garlic cloves
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- A little water (for grinding)
For the Curry:
- 3–4 fresh crabs (cleaned and cut)
- 2 tbsp oil (preferably coconut oil)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Method
1. Clean the Crab
Start by thoroughly cleaning the crabs. Crack the claws slightly to let the masala seep in during cooking. Cut the crab into manageable pieces.
2. Prepare the Masala
In a pan, dry roast the red chilies, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and sliced onion until aromatic. Let it cool, then blend it with grated coconut, turmeric, garlic, and tamarind to a smooth paste, adding just a little water as needed.
3. Cook the Base
In a deep pan, heat oil and sauté the chopped onion until golden. Add the freshly ground masala paste and cook on medium heat, stirring frequently until the oil begins to separate and the masala darkens slightly.
4. Add the Crab
Gently add the crab pieces to the masala and mix well so they are coated. Cook for about 5 minutes, then add a bit of water to create a thick curry (as per your preferred consistency). Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the crabs are cooked through and infused with the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or Goan sannas (fluffy rice cakes).
Why You Will Love It
- Bold and Fiery Flavors: The unique Goan blend of coconut, chilies, and spices creates a taste explosion.
- Comforting and Authentic: It brings coastal comfort to your dining table, evoking memories of beachside shacks and home-cooked meals.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the chilies to control the spice level without compromising on flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Xec Xec
- Use fresh crabs for the best taste.
- Don’t rush the masala roasting and cooking – it’s the heart of the dish.
- Pair with a cold beer or a glass of chilled white wine for a perfect coastal meal.
Crab Xec Xec is more than just a curry — it’s a celebration of Goan culinary tradition. Making it at home might seem ambitious, but with a few key ingredients and a bit of patience, you can bring this fiery seafood delicacy to life in your own kitchen. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, grab some fresh crabs, and dive into the irresistible world of Goan Crab Xec Xec!
