Guinataan Crab
Guinataan Crab is a flavorful Filipino seafood dish featuring fresh crab cooked in coconut milk with garlic, ginger, and hot peppers, perfect for those who enjoy rich, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shell the shrimp or live crab, devein, and place in a saucepan.
- Add the thin coconut milk, ginger, and dilao to the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the crab or shrimp turn red.
- Add the coconut cream, hot peppers, and salt.
- Just before serving, add chopped green onions.
Tips & Substitutions
For the freshest flavor, use live crab instead of shrimp. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of hot peppers or remove the seeds. Substitute coconut cream with full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can be added at the end of cooking to warm through. Pair this dish with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Guinataan Crab hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or garlic fried rice to soak up the rich coconut sauce. For a complete meal, consider a side of salad or fresh vegetables. You can also serve it alongside other seafood recipes for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the seafood tough. Serve warm for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Guinataan Crab contains roughly 252 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2830mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
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 shrimp or crab for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen crab can also work, but it may alter the texture slightly. Always ensure seafood is cooked thoroughly for safety.
What if I can't find dilao?
If dilao is unavailable, you can substitute with a small amount of lemongrass or omit it entirely. The dish will still be flavorful, thanks to the garlic and ginger. Adjust the other spices to enhance the overall taste.
How do I know when the crab or shrimp are fully cooked?
Crab is cooked when it turns bright red, while shrimp will turn pink and opaque. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer if unsure; seafood should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
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).