Cambodian Peppercorn Crab Stir-Fry with Fragrant Herbs
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 fo
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Crab
- 1
Combine lime juice with crab
In a bowl, combine lime juice with the crab pieces; set aside.
- 2
Prepare marinade
In a separate bowl, mix garlic, ginger, fish sauce, sugar, and salt.
- 3
Marinate the crab
Pour the marinade over the crab, ensuring pieces are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for 15 minutes.
Tip: ⚠ Important: Avoid over-marinating the crab as the lime juice can alter the texture.
Preparing the Stir-fry Sauce
- 1
Mix sauces
Mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and chili paste in a small bowl.
- 2
Set aside sauce
Set the sauce aside for later use.
- 3
Prepare herbs
Rinse and pat dry the fragrant herbs.
Tip: 💡 Pro Tip: Lightly crush the green peppercorns before adding to enhance their aroma.
How to Make Cambodian Peppercorn Crab Stir-Fry with Fragrant Herbs
Total time: 1 h · Yields 4 servings
- 1
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.
- 2
Add the sauce
Pour in the pre-mixed stir-fry sauce, tossing to coat the crab evenly.
- 3
Incorporate the herbs
Add the Thai basil, cilantro, and green peppercorns, stirring until the herbs wilt and the dish is fragrant.
Chef's Tips
Frequently asked questions
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.
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