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Thai Curry Crab Stir Fry

A delightful combination of fresh crab meat and a creamy, spicy sauce, this Thai Curry Crab Stir Fry is quick to prepare and full of flavor, making it the perfect comfort food.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Custard Mixture
  • 1 Tablespoon Thai chili paste (nam prik pao) Brings a sweet and spicy flavor.
  • 1 Tablespoon Thai chili paste oil (or another chili oil) Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk or coconut milk Coconut gives a more authentic Thai flavor.
  • 3 large eggs For a rich custard-like texture.
  • 1 Tablespoon oyster sauce Provides umami taste.
  • 1 Tablespoon fish sauce Adds salty depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper For a subtle kick.
Main Ingredients
  • 1 Tablespoon neutral oil Grapeseed or canola oil recommended.
  • 1/4 onion diced (preferably sweet onion) Sweet onions caramelize beautifully.
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped Enhances flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder High-quality powder for vibrant flavor.
  • 7 oz fresh crab meat Fresh is best, canned works in a pinch.
Garnishes & Servings
  • Handful Celery leaves and stalks, thinly sliced Adds crunch and freshness.
  • As needed Optional garnish: julienned red chilies or bell pepper For visual appeal.
  • As needed Jasmine rice Serves as a bed for the stir fry.
  • As desired Prik nam pla (optional condiment) For those who love extra kick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Whisk together the chili paste and chili oil in a bowl. Add about a tablespoon of evaporated milk to loosen and eliminate any lumps.
  2. Combine the remaining evaporated milk, eggs, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and white pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Cooking
  1. Heat a nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat and add neutral oil.
  2. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant but slightly crunchy, about 1 minute.
  3. Stir in the curry powder for about 5 seconds to let it infuse into the oil.
  4. Add the crab and gently toss for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
  5. Pour in the custard mixture and stir continuously until thickened but slightly undercooked, around 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and fold in the celery leaves and stalks.
Serving
  1. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with julienned chilies and additional celery leaves if using.
  2. Serve over jasmine rice and offer prik nam pla on the side.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more chili paste or even a fresh Thai chili. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.