Malaysian Style Kam Heong Crab

Kam Heong crab is another popular crab dish in Malaysia. The word “Kam Heong” literally means Golden Fragrance. It really does light-up the smelling senses and tastes great. A profusion of smells from the key ingredients - curry leaves, curry powder, dried shrimps, shallots, garlic, and chilies. Well, if you like to try a different style of cooking these crustaceans, do consider giving this famous Malaysian style Kam Heong Crab recipe a try.



*This is an updated post with a video cooking guide. (Previously posted on 09/26/09)


Malaysian Style Kam Heong Crab

Ingredients

2 Large Dungeness Crabs (4 1/2 lbs) Cut into 8 pieces for each crab
2 Tbsp Dried Shrimps, soaked for 10 minutes and drained
3 Shallots, chopped
4 Cloves Garlic, chopped
8 to 10 Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies, chopped
1 Bunch (15 g) Fresh Curry Leaves
2 Tbsp Fish Curry Powder
2 tsp Coarsely Ground Black Peppercorns
3 Tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
2 Tbsp Oyster Sauce
1 Tbsp Sugar
Oil for deep-frying



Method

Put the oil in a large wok, or large deep saucepan and heat over high heat. Deep-fry the crabs for about 4 to 5 minutes and set aside. Reserve 2 Tbsp of the oil and drain off the excess oil.

Reheat the wok with the reserved oil on high heat. Cook the dried shrimps until crisps. Then toss in the shallots, garlic, and chilies; curry leaves, curry powder and cook until the mixture is golden in color and fragrant.

Then add the coarsely ground black peppers, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce, sugar and give the mixture a quick stir. Mix in the crabs and stir until well combine and season with salt if necessary. Serve immediately.