Ingredients for a Delicious Crab Soup
Freshwater crabs: 500g (choose lively, healthy crabs)
Water spinach: 1 bunch (approx. 300g) or amaranth, jute mallow – optional
Tomatoes: 2 medium-sized (approx. 200g)
Shallots: 2 bulbs
Crab roe (optional): adds color and richness
Seasonings: salt, broth mix, fish sauce, pepper, cooking oil
Water: 1.5 – 2 liters
Fragrant herb (optional): 1 fruit, for added sweetness
A Guide to Cooking Delicious Crab Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Freshwater Crabs
Rinse the crabs under running water to remove any dirt.
Separate the crab shells, retaining the roe (if available) in a small bowl.
Remove the gills and mouthparts, then rinse the crabs again thoroughly.
Pound or blend the crabs with a pinch of salt, then add about 1 liter of water and stir well.
Strain the crab mixture through a sieve or fine cloth to obtain the crab broth, discarding the solids.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Other Ingredients
Water spinach (or amaranth, jute mallow): Pluck the tender tips and young leaves, rinse, and drain. If using fragrant herb, peel, rinse, and slice thinly.
Tomatoes: Wash and cut into wedges.
Shallots: Peel and finely chop.
Step 3: Sauté the Crab Roe (if using)
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a small pan.
Add the chopped shallots and sauté until fragrant, then add the crab roe and cook until it turns a beautiful golden color. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Crab Soup
Bring the crab broth to a boil over medium heat. As the broth boils, crab curds will rise to the surface in clumps. Gently scoop them out into a bowl and set aside.
Season the broth with 1 tablespoon each of salt, broth mix, and fish sauce (adjust to taste).
Add the tomatoes to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their color.
Throw in the water spinach (or other greens) and fragrant herb (if using), simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet retain a pleasant crunch.
Return the crab curds and sautéed roe to the pot, giving it a gentle stir. Cook for a further minute, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the crab soup into bowls and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
Accompany the soup with steamed rice, pickled garlic bulbs, or shrimp paste for an enhanced flavor experience.
Crab soup is best enjoyed hot, making it an ideal summer dish to cool off with.
