How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I use frozen crab?

Fresh crab is recommended for the best flavor, but frozen crab can be used if thawed properly.

What if I don't have fresh green peppercorns?

You can substitute with dried green peppercorns, though the flavor may be less vibrant.

Can this dish be made ahead?

It's best prepared fresh; however, you can marinate the crab up to 4 hours in advance.

Are there any recommended substitutions for herb allergies?

Swap out basil or cilantro with parsley or mint to suit dietary needs.

Cambodian Peppercorn Crab Stir-Fry with Fragrant Herbs

Name: Cambodian Peppercorn Crab Stir-Fry with Fragrant Herbs
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 large whole crabs; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 4 cloves garlic; 1-inch piece ginger; 3 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon chili paste; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1 cup fresh green peppercorns

A spice-infused, aromatic crab delicacy

This Cambodian-style crab stir-fry features the vibrant flavors of fresh green peppercorns and herbs, combined with tender crab meat. A delightful dance of spicy, tangy, and aromatic notes, perfect for seafood lovers.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Crab

2 large whole crabs

cleaned and quartered

2 tablespoons lime juice

For the Marinade

4 cloves garlic

finely minced

1-inch piece ginger

grated

3 tablespoons fish sauce

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

For the Stir-fry Sauce

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar

1 teaspoon chili paste

For the Fragrant Herbs

1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

1 cup fresh green peppercorns

on the stem if possible

Preparation

Marinating the Crab

Combine lime juice with crab

In a bowl, combine lime juice with the crab pieces; set aside.

Prepare marinade

In a separate bowl, mix garlic, ginger, fish sauce, sugar, and salt.

Marinate the crab

Pour the marinade over the crab, ensuring pieces are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for 15 minutes.

⚠ Important: Avoid over-marinating the crab as the lime juice can alter the texture.

Preparing the Stir-fry Sauce

Mix sauces

Mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and chili paste in a small bowl.

Set aside sauce

Set the sauce aside for later use.

Prepare herbs

Rinse and pat dry the fragrant herbs.

💡 Pro Tip: Lightly crush the green peppercorns before adding to enhance their aroma.

Cooking Process

Stir-fry the crab

Heat a large wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated crab pieces and stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes until the shells turn pink.

Add the sauce

Pour in the pre-mixed stir-fry sauce, tossing to coat the crab evenly.

Incorporate the herbs

Add the Thai basil, cilantro, and green peppercorns, stirring until the herbs wilt and the dish is fragrant.

Plating & Serving