Introduction
Singapore, renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a delectable array of seafood dishes, with chilli crab reigning supreme as a national favourite. This tantalizing delicacy features succulent mud crabs smothered in a piquant and aromatic tomato-based sauce. While numerous restaurants serve chilli crab, hawker centres, known for their affordable and authentic food, are a prime destination to savour this iconic dish.
Top Hawker Centres for Chilli Crab
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Maxwell Food Centre: This bustling hawker centre houses Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, widely acclaimed for its award-winning chilli crab. The crabs here are cooked to perfection, with tender meat that absorbs the spicy and tangy sauce.
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Lau Pa Sat: Located in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, Lau Pa Sat offers a wide selection of chilli crab stalls. Among the most popular is Jumbo Seafood, known for its giant crabs served with a delectable sauce that balances sweetness and heat.
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Changi Village Hawker Centre: This seaside hawker centre boasts Ah Meng Seafood, a celebrated establishment offering fresh and flavourful chilli crabs. The crabs are steamed before being coated in a slightly less spicy sauce, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a milder heat.
Breakdown of Cost
The cost of chilli crab in Singapore hawker centres varies depending on the size and quality of the crabs used. On average, a kilogram of mud crab costs around SGD$60. The price of a cooked chilli crab dish typically ranges from SGD$70 to SGD$120.
Health and Nutrition
Chilli crab is a rich source of protein, providing approximately 25 grams per 100 grams of crab meat. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. However, it is important to note that the dish is high in cholesterol and sodium.
Tips for Choosing the Best Chilli Crab
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Size matters: Larger crabs tend to have more succulent and flavourful meat.
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Freshness counts: Look for crabs with bright, red shells and firm, heavy bodies.
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Taste preferences: Different hawkers prepare their sauces with varying levels of spice and sweetness. Try a few stalls to find a sauce that suits your palate.
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Don’t forget the sides: Chilli crab is typically served with steamed buns or fried mantou to soak up the delicious sauce.
FAQs
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What is the best time to eat chilli crab?
- Chilli crab is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day, but it is traditionally consumed during dinner.
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How do you eat chilli crab?
- Use your hands to crack open the crab and extract the meat. Dip the meat into the sauce and enjoy!
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Can chilli crab be made less spicy?
- Yes, you can request the hawker to adjust the spiciness level to your preference.
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What are some good alternatives to chilli crab?
- If you prefer a less spicy option, you can try black pepper crab or steamed crab with garlic and soy sauce.
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Can I buy chilli crab sauce to cook at home?
- Yes, many hawkers sell their chilli crab sauce separately. You can purchase it to prepare the dish yourself at home.
Conclusion
Singapore’s hawker centres offer an unparalleled culinary experience, and chilli crab is a must-try dish for any visitor to the city. From the award-winning delights of Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice to the giant crabs of Jumbo Seafood, there is a wide range of options to satisfy any palate. Whether you are a local or a tourist, be sure to embark on a gastronomic adventure in search of the best chilli crab in Singapore hawker centres.
