Thai Style Crab Fried Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Style Crab Fried Rice offers the perfect blend of sweetness from the crab and savory from the fried rice. The dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or as a special treat for guests. The fragrant jasmine rice paired with succulent crab meat brings out a rich and fresh flavor profile, enhanced by the zingy lime and the aromatic freshness of cilantro and green onions. It’s a light, yet satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold)

• 1/2 pound crab meat (fresh or canned)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 2 green onions, chopped

• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

• Lime wedges, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.

2. Push the garlic and onion mixture to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble until fully cooked.

3. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine, breaking up any clumps of rice.

4. Add the crab meat, peas, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir-fry everything together until the crab meat is heated through and the rice is well-coated with the sauce, about 3–4 minutes.

5. Stir in the green onions and remove from heat.

6. Serve the fried rice garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the crab meat with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Spicy Version: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

• Other Proteins: Instead of crab, try shrimp, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.

• Herbs: Experiment with Thai basil or mint for additional fresh flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover crab fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of oil or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice instead of jasmine rice?

While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance, you can use any long-grain rice you have on hand.

2. Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, canned crab meat works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the fried rice.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some sliced red chilies, chili paste, or a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice in advance and store it in the fridge, but it’s best to cook the fried rice fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

6. How do I know when the rice is cooked through?

The rice should be heated through, and each grain should be coated with sauce. It should not be too sticky or clumpy.

7. Can I use frozen crab meat?

Yes, frozen crab meat is a good alternative. Just thaw it before using it in the recipe.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

9. How do I make the fried rice taste more authentic?

Using fish sauce and lime juice is key to giving the dish that signature Thai flavor. You can also use Thai basil or a little bit of coconut milk for added authenticity.

10. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Thai Style Crab Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Thai Style Crab Fried Rice is a flavorful, fragrant, and versatile dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to serve at a special gathering, this recipe is a delicious option that balances freshness, sweetness, and savory goodness. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with this simple and satisfying fried rice recipe!

Thai Style Crab Fried Rice

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This Thai Style Crab Fried Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent crab meat with fragrant jasmine rice, seasoned with Thai spices, and topped with fresh herbs. Perfect for seafood lovers, it’s a one-pan wonder packed with authentic Thai flavors!

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2-3 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Thai
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold)
• 200g fresh crab meat (preferably lump)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 spring onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (for garnish)
• 1 red chili, sliced (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

• Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
• Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble them until just set.
• Stir in the crab meat and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to warm through and mix with the eggs and onions.
• Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry everything together for 3-4 minutes until the rice is evenly heated.
• Season the rice with fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well to combine.
• If using peas and carrots, add them to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Stir in the chopped spring onions and cilantro leaves, then remove from heat.
• Serve the crab fried rice on a plate with lime wedges and sliced red chili for garnish.

Notes

• Using cold rice is key for a good fried rice texture, as it helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
• You can substitute the crab with shrimp or chicken if preferred.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste; some like it spicier, so feel free to add more chili or a dash of chili sauce.