Spicy and Refreshing Crab Stew Recipe (Using Frozen Crabs)
Easily make a delicious and refreshing crab stew at home! Enjoy a hearty soup dish with frozen crabs.
Today, I made a flavorful crab stew using frozen crabs that were purchased in November and kept in the freezer. This stew boasts a deep, refreshing taste from the seafood and various vegetables, creating an umami-rich broth that’s perfect as a side dish or a comforting meal. Follow these detailed steps for a simple and satisfying experience.
Main Crab Stew Ingredients- 3 fresh crabs (thawed if using frozen)
- 1/3 daikon radish
- 1/2 green onion
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh perilla leaves (optional, for added aroma)
- 1 enoki mushroom
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper (Korean spicy pepper)
Spicy Seasoning- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp Minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp Cooking wine (Mirin or similar)
- 0.5 Tbsp MSG (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Broth Preparation- 2-3 Coin broth packs (or 1 handful of dried anchovies)
- 2L Water
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp Minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp Cooking wine (Mirin or similar)
- 0.5 Tbsp MSG (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Broth Preparation- 2-3 Coin broth packs (or 1 handful of dried anchovies)
- 2L Water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, in a pot, add 2 liters of water and 2-3 coin broth packs. Alternatively, you can create a rich anchovy broth by simmering a handful of dried anchovies for a deeper flavor.
Step 2
Prepare 1/3 of a daikon radish by cutting it into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm square. The daikon radish will add a refreshing sweetness to the stew, enhancing the overall flavor of the crab stew.
Step 3
Once the broth comes to a rolling boil, add the sliced daikon radish to the pot and let it simmer. It’s best to cook until the radish becomes translucent and tender, allowing its refreshing taste to infuse the broth.
Step 4
When the broth boils again, add 1 tablespoon of doenjang and 1 tablespoon of gochujang. Stir well to dissolve completely, ensuring there are no lumps. These two pastes combine to create the characteristic deep and rich flavor of crab stew.
Step 5
Now, add your desired vegetables. You can use zucchini, onion, potatoes, or other vegetables you enjoy. I’ve added a handful of pre-cut mixed vegetables commonly used for stews for convenience. The sweetness and texture from the vegetables will make the crab stew even more substantial.
Step 6
Add 2 generous tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference.
Step 7
As the stew begins to boil vigorously again, carefully add the prepared and cleaned crabs. Be mindful not to overcook the crabs, as their meat can become mushy. Cook them for just the right amount of time.
Step 8
Add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of cooking wine (like mirin) to eliminate any fishy odor and enhance the umami. These seasonings will further elevate the fresh flavor of the crabs.
Step 9
Taste the broth and, if it’s not salty enough, add soy sauce to adjust the seasoning to your liking. It’s better to add seasoning gradually after tasting rather than making it too salty from the start.
Step 10
Finally, add 1/2 green onion, perilla leaves or cilantro, 1 Cheongyang chili pepper for a touch of heat, and 1 enoki mushroom. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds more, and your delicious crab stew is ready!
Step 11
Crabs are naturally rich in umami, making them a fantastic ingredient on their own. Even my husband, who can be quite picky, thoroughly enjoyed this spicy and refreshing crab stew. It’s a wonderful meal that the whole family can enjoy together. Enjoy your meal!
