Crab Enchilada

Prep: 20 min Cook: 90 min Cuisine: Mexican

A rich and flavorful crab enchilada featuring tender crab meat and vibrant tomato sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and those craving spicy Mexican-inspired dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 pt. olive oil
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 bell peppers
  • 1 (No. 2) can tomatoes
  • 2 (No. 1) cans tomato puree
  • 2 small cans tomato sauce
  • 12 crabs
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Chop the onion and bell peppers.
  2. Fry the chopped onion and bell peppers in olive oil until brown.
  3. Add tomato puree and tomato sauce to the fried vegetables.
  4. Cook on a slow fire for 1 hour.
  5. Add the crabs and cook for another 1 1/2 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the vegetable mix. If fresh crabs are unavailable, you can substitute with canned crab meat. Additionally, using fire-roasted tomatoes can enhance the depth of flavor. Keep an eye on the consistency of the sauce; if too thick, a splash of water or broth can help. This dish is a wonderful introduction to Mexican recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crab enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with Fast And Easy Shrimp And Rice, creating a delightful seafood feast. A light salsa or guacamole can also complement the flavors well.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover crab enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be cautious not to overheat as this can dry out the crab.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crab Enchilada contains roughly 2822 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 307g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2071mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).

2822 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 307.3g 100% DV
Carbs 24.2g 9% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 7g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2070.5mg 90% DV
Potassium 402.2mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 59.4mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 22.6mg 25% DV
Calcium 35.3mg 3% DV
Iron 3.5mg 19% DV
Contains Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen crab for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen crab meat. Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before adding it to the dish. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the enchiladas.

What can I serve with crab enchiladas?

Crab enchiladas pair well with sides like refried beans, rice, or a refreshing corn salad. You can also serve a simple guacamole or pico de gallo for added freshness and flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the sauce. You can also serve it with a spicy salsa on the side to allow guests to adjust the heat to their preference.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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