SINGAPORE: Eating crabs is one of Singapore's national past times. What used to be something we only eat on special occasions or when we had an overseas visitor, it is now something we eat whenever we like. Singapore being such an international city, you can imagine crab dishes cooked in hundreds of ways, influenced by culture from all over the world.
Here are some places you can get some not so common crab dishes.
Holycrab
Green Mumba looks exactly like Mr Krab swimming out of the swamp! But, don't let the look fool you. This amazing concoction is made from green chilli sauce and Kaffir lime leaves. At first taste, Thailand comes to mind. But, when you taste it again, you will be thinking of India. The sour citrus flavour is ideal for seafood, and there is a hint of floral undertone. Then, grab some deep-fried buns and dunk them into the sauce. That will truly complete the meal.
Besides the Green Mumba, we are also recommending the Scorched Vermicelli and The Sauna (Crab).
Address: 13 Stamford Rd, #01-85 Arcade @ Capitol, Singapore 178905
New Happy Crab Seafood Restaurant
This is truly a hole in the wall. Located in a coffee shop, expect some heat and sweat while you enjoy these delicious babies with your fingers. The crabs are prepared like a Teochew cold crab, and instead of chilling it, they are grilled. Then, brush some of the special sauce on it, which adds some saltiness over the sweet crabs. Depending on what is available, you either get crabs with crab butter or crab roe. So what are you waiting for? Wash your hands and dig right in!
Besides the BBQ Crabs, we are also recommending the Pase Pase and the barbeque squid.
Address: 13 Pahang Street, Singapore 198613
The Go Gi Jip
There is no other way to prove you are a hardcore crab lover except that you love eating raw crab. Eating raw crab is not unheard of in Asia. You can easily find it on the street of Thailand, in high-end sushi restaurants in Japan or family BBQ restaurants in Korea. Korean marinated raw crab is a traditional dish that can be traced back to the 17th century. It's a perfect dish to have with rice. The soy salty flavour is simply addictive.
Besides the Soy Marinated Raw Crab, Ganjang Gejang, you got to try the spicy version, Yangnyeom Gejang too. Of course, Korean BBQ over a charcoal fire is a must.
Address: 72 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088493
Cherry & Oak
In recent years, smoke BBQ has been getting popular in Singapore, and you would probably have seen or tried smoked ribs, brisket and even a tomahawk steak. At Cherry & Oak, they take a leaf from American BBQ smoking techniques and apply it to mud crabs. Isn't this an amazing idea? The smoking introduces a subtle smokey aroma into crustaceans, and grill them to further enhance the taste. This is a unique option for those who don't like red meat yet want some smoked protein. However, when we were trying this, the crabs were not completely cooked. They were taken back and grilled again. I am sure this is an isolated incident, and I can't wait to try other items on their menu.
Cherry & Oak is a halal-certified restaurant.
You have not really gone to a smokehouse if you don't have any beef. Other must-tries are their Beef Ribs (500g) and their amazing Nasi Lemak Bakar! They have amazing sambal!
Address: 95 Owen Rd, Singapore 218907