Dive into a world of culinary delight with this exquisite crab and seafood soup recipe, a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Imagine a rich and creamy broth, brimming with succulent crab meat, plump shrimp, tender mussels, and an array of aromatic vegetables. This isn't just a soup; it's an experience, a journey for your senses that effortlessly blends comfort food with sophisticated taste. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes creates a harmonious blend that's both satisfying and incredibly flavorful.
This recipe isn't just for experienced chefs; it's designed for anyone who appreciates delicious food and wants to impress. We've broken down the process into easy-to-follow steps, guiding you through each stage with clear instructions and helpful tips. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own masterpiece? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Sieve
- Pot
- Steamer
- Bowl
- Frying Pan
Ingredients
- Squid: 800g
- Squid Ink
- Octopus: 300g
- Shrimp: 300g
- Field Crab: 600g
- Crab Bricks
- Eggs: 5
- Shallots
- Tomatoes
- Green Onions
- Salt
- Water: 3L
- Cooking Oil
- Seasoning Powder
- Rock Sugar
- Fish Sauce
- Pepper
- Annatto Oil
- Various Vegetables (squash, squash blossoms, Malabar spinach, king oyster mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, seafood mushrooms)
- Salmon Head (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Crab Broth and Crab Cake
- Wash and drain the crabs. Blend the crabs with a tablespoon of salt and approximately 2 liters of water (adjust water amount based on crab quantity). Blend until smooth.
- 3L. Stir well, let it settle, and separate the crab meat from the shells using a sieve. This process may take some time and patience.
- Repeat the sieving process with additional cold water until all crab meat is extracted and the water runs clear.
- Heat cooking oil in a pot, add shallots, and sauté until golden brown. Add the crab meat to remove the fishy smell.
- Gently scoop out the crab meat using a sieve to drain excess water, leaving some lumpy crab meat for texture in the soup. Season the crab meat with seasoning powder and rock sugar.
- Prepare a bowl, brush with oil, and add the drained crab meat. Crack in five eggs, reserving two yolks for later use. Mix well, add pepper, seasoning powder, fish sauce, and fried onions.
- Steam the crab cake for 20-25 minutes, covering with a towel to prevent dripping water. Brush the top with the reserved egg yolks mixed with annatto oil for color and gloss, then steam for another 10 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Prepare the Seafood
- Wash and process the squid and octopus. Refrigerate to keep them fresh.
- In a pan, sauté green onions until golden brown. Add crab fat, seasoning powder, rock sugar, and fish sauce. Stir-fry until fragrant.
Step 3. Simmer the Soup and Combine Ingredients
- Simmer the crab broth over low heat. Add the crab fat mixture, season to taste, and skim off any foam. Add salted tomatoes and onion roots.
- Add remaining fried onions to the broth. Add vegetables (squash, squash blossoms, Malabar spinach, king oyster mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and seafood mushrooms) ,shrimp, squid, octopus and salmon head (optional).
Step 4. Serve
- Cut the steamed crab cake into bite-sized pieces. Serve the soup hot with the crab cake and other ingredients.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Be patient during the crab meat extraction process. Using a sieve may limit the amount of crab meat.
- Leaving some lumpy crab meat in the soup adds texture and flavor.
- Adding annatto oil to the egg yolk creates a glossy finish and enhances the color of the crab cake.
- Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2200
- Fat: 80-110g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 150-180g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the crab meat with other seafood?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more shrimp, scallops, or even lobster for a variation on the seafood.
2. What if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
No problem! Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Celery, carrots, and onions are the most important for flavor, but feel free to experiment.
This delicious crab and seafood soup is the perfect comforting meal for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a special dinner party. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary efforts!