Butter Garlic Crab

Butter Garlic Crab is a sumptuous and flavorful seafood dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh crab meat, combined with the rich, buttery taste and the aromatic punch of garlic. This dish is a favorite in many coastal cuisines and is celebrated for its simplicity and decadent flavor. The butter and garlic not only enhance the taste of the crab but also create a mouth-watering sauce that is perfect for dipping bread or soaking up with rice.
This dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend meal, offering a restaurant-quality experience at home. The succulent crab meat, bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, makes Butter Garlic Crab a delightful treat for seafood lovers. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor.
How to Clean and Prepare Crab for Cooking
- Selecting Crab: Choose live or very fresh crabs for the best flavor. The crab should have a sweet ocean smell.
- Cleaning:
- Rinse the crab thoroughly under cold running water.
- Remove the shell by lifting the pointed end and pulling it off. Discard the shell and clean out the gills (dead man’s fingers) and other inedible parts.
- Rinse the body and claws to remove any sand or debris.
- Break the crab body into two halves and crack the claws slightly to allow the flavors to penetrate while cooking.
- Optional: Marinate the cleaned crab pieces with a pinch of salt and turmeric powder for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Click here to see how to prepare a crab for cooking
Ingredients Required for Making Butter Garlic Crab

- Fresh Crab (ताजा केकड़ा) – 500 grams, cleaned and cut into pieces
- Butter (मक्खन) – 4 tablespoons
- Garlic (लहसुन) – 10-12 cloves, finely chopped
- Green Chilies (हरी मिर्च) – 2, slit
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ते) – for garnish
- Lemon Juice (नींबू का रस) – 1 tablespoon
- Salt (नमक) – to taste
- Black Pepper Powder (काली मिर्च पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley (ताजा अजवायन के पत्ते) – for garnish (optional)
Step-wise Process of Cooking Butter Garlic Crab
- Preparation: Clean and prepare the crab as described above. Optionally marinate with salt and turmeric powder for 10 minutes.
- Melting Butter: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown and fragrant.
- Adding Chilies: Add the slit green chilies to the pan and sauté for another minute.
- Cooking Crab: Add the cleaned crab pieces to the pan. Toss them gently to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and black pepper powder over the crab. Mix well to ensure the crab is evenly coated.
- Simmering: Cover the pan with a lid and let the crab cook in its juices for about 15-20 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Finishing Touch: Once the crab is cooked and tender, add lemon juice and give it a final stir. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and, optionally, fresh parsley.
Number of Servings
- This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Use fresh crab for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing, as it can turn bitter.
- Do not overcook the crab, as it can become tough and chewy.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and chili according to your taste preference.
How to Serve the Butter Garlic Crab

Serve the Butter Garlic Crab hot, garnished with fresh coriander or parsley. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, crusty bread, or a simple salad. The garlic butter sauce is perfect for dipping, so provide extra bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Final Thoughts
Butter Garlic Crab is a luxurious and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Its rich and aromatic flavors make it a perfect centerpiece for a special dinner. With its simple preparation and decadent taste, this dish is sure to impress and delight seafood lovers. Enjoy this delightful seafood treat and savor the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender crab meat!
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