Crispy Crablets: A Must-Try Appetizer and Snack

Crispy crablets are making waves in the culinary world as a delicious and exciting appetizer or snack. Originating from the Philippines, this dish is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy crablets, or small, young crabs. Let’s dive into the world of crispy crablets, explore their history and variations, and learn some tips and tricks for making this delightful dish.

What Are Crablets?

Crablets are small, young crabs, typically measuring about 1-2 inches in size. They have a soft shell, which makes them perfect for frying, as their delicate texture creates a crispy and delicious treat. Crablets are commonly found in Asian markets and have gained popularity in various dishes, including crispy crablets.

A Brief History of Crispy Crablets

The origin of crispy crablets can be traced back to the Philippines, where this dish has been a popular snack or appetizer for many years. As with many traditional dishes, the recipe for crispy crablets has evolved, incorporating various ingredients and techniques. One unique aspect of the dish is using soft drinks or soda, such as Sprite or 7-Up, as a marinade.

Tips & Tricks for Making Crispy Crablets

1. When choosing crablets, look for those with a bright and lively appearance. Fresh crablets will yield the best results.
   
2. Make sure to clean the crablets thoroughly, removing the carapace and abdomen.
   
3. Take your time with the marinating time. Allow the crablets to soak in the soda for at least 15 minutes for the best flavor and texture.
   
4. When dredging the crablets in flour, be sure to coat them evenly. This will ensure a consistent and crispy texture throughout.
   
5. Fry the crablets in small batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. This will ensure that they cook evenly and don’t stick together.
   
6. Use a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil after frying.

Crispy Crablets Recipe: A Delightful Culinary Adventure Awaits

Now that you’ve learned about the fascinating world of crispy crablets, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure and try making them yourself. With our easy-to-follow recipe and helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and unique appetizer or snack that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

SEE THE FULL RECIPE BELOW!

Crispy Crablets

5 from 1 vote

Course: Appetizers, SnacksCuisine: FilipinoDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories per Serving

270

kcal

Total time

30

minutes

Crispy crablets make waves as delicious and exciting appetizers or snacks in the culinary world. Originating from the Philippines, this dish is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy crablets or small, young crabs.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

US Metric

• 1/2 kilogram 1/2 kilogram Crablets

• 1 can 1 can  Soda (7up or Sprite)

• 1/2 cup 64 g Cornstarch

• 1/2 cup 62.5 g All-Purpose Flour

• 2 tbsp 30 g Chili Pepper Powder

• 1 tsp 3.1 g Garlic Powder

• 1/2 tsp 3 g Sea Salt

• 1/2 tsp 2.2 g Ground Peppercorn

• 2 2 Eggs (beaten)

• Boiling Hot Water

• Dipping Sauce

• 1 cup 236.59 ml Red Cane Vinegar

• 1 bulb 1 bulb Native Garlic (washed and crushed)

• 1 medium 1 medium Red Onion (minced)

• 2 tbsp 12 g Spring Onion (minced)

• 3 pcs 3 pcs Red Dried Chili

• 2 tbsp 24 g Brown Sugar

• 1 tbsp 14.79 ml Soy Sauce

• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

• Wash the crablets and drain thoroughly. Pour hot water over the crablets and sprinkle a spoonful of salt. Let it set for 1 minute. Drain and wash again.
• Remove and discard each crablet’s upper shell (carapace) and abdomen.
• In a clean mixing bowl, combine crablets and soda. Marinate for 15 minutes.
• Beat the eggs and set aside. In another bowl, combine all the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
• After 15 minutes, drain the marinated crablets. Add the beaten eggs and gently mix.
• Dredge the crablets in the flour mixture, then deep-fry until the texture becomes crispy.
• Remove from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
• Once the excess oil drips off completely, arrange the crablets on a serving plate and serve with the spicy vinegar dipping sauce.
• Dipping Sauce
• Combine all the ingredients for the dipping sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the taste with salt and mixed peppercorn as needed.

Recipe Video

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @littlechefasia on Instagram and hashtag it with #littlechefasia

Like this recipe?

Follow @littlechefasia on Pinterest

Check my Facebook Page!

Follow LittleChef on Facebook

Frequently Asked Questions