Chile Jaiva is a traditional Chilean crab recipe that transforms fresh crab into a succulent and flavorful seafood dish. The recipe involves cleaning the crab, preparing a rich tomato-based sauce, and cooking the crab until tender and infused with the sauce's complex flavors. This method is used to create a variety of dishes, including Chilean-style crab cakes and stuffed crab. Perfect for seafood lovers, Chile Jaiva delivers a hearty, flavorful experience that captures the essence of Chilean cuisine.
Chile Jaiva holds a special place in Chilean culinary tradition. The name "Jaiva" refers to crab in Chilean Spanish, and the dish embodies the coastal influence of Chilean cooking. Crabs are abundant along Chile's coastline, and this recipe showcases the local seafood in a manner that highlights regional flavors. The combination of ingredients such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers reflects the vibrant and robust character of Chilean cuisine, making Chile Jaiva a cherished dish for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients:
1. 1-2 large crabs
2. 1 onion, chopped
3. 1 bell pepper, chopped
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1/4 cup white wine
6. 1/2 cup tomato sauce
7. 1/4 cup water
8. 1 teaspoon paprika
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. Olive oil for frying
Method:
1. Cleaning the Crab:
- Remove the top shell of the crab by prying it off with a knife.
- Remove the gills (spongy grayish-brownish pieces) on either side of the crab.
- Rinse the crab meat thoroughly under cold water to remove any remaining shell fragments or debris.
- Note: Cleaning crabs can be tricky; consider seeking assistance from a professional if you are unfamiliar with this process.
2. Preparing the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in white wine, tomato sauce, water, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Note: Ensure the sauce is well-seasoned and has a good consistency, as it is crucial to the final flavor of the dish.
3. Cooking the Crab:
- Add the cleaned crab to the pot, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the crab meat is cooked through and tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or chopped vegetables if desired.
- Note: Make sure the crab is cooked thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Enjoy the delightful taste of Chile Jaiva, a true representation of Chilean seafood cuisine!
Nutrition Value:
1. 1-2 large crabs:
- Calories: 80 per 3-ounce serving
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin B12, Vitamin C
- Minerals: Rich in selenium, zinc, and copper
- Nutritional Benefit: Crabs are an excellent source of lean protein and essential vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve health and red blood cell formation. Selenium and zinc support immune function and antioxidant defense.
2. 1 onion, chopped:
- Calories: 45 per medium onion
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 4 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin C, Vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains manganese, calcium, and potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Onions are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support immune health and help reduce inflammation. They also contain prebiotics that support gut health.
3. 1 bell pepper, chopped:
- Calories: 30 per medium pepper
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 2 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Very high in Vitamin C, also contains Vitamin A and Vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains potassium and folate
- Nutritional Benefit: Bell peppers are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps in the absorption of iron. They also provide antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced:
- Calories: 9 per clove
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 milligram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamin C and small amounts of Vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains manganese and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It supports cardiovascular health and has potential cancer-fighting compounds.
5. 1/4 cup white wine:
- Calories: 50
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 milligram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains trace amounts of B vitamins
- Minerals: Contains potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: White wine can add depth of flavor and complexity to dishes. It contains antioxidants, though the amounts are minimal compared to other ingredients.
6. 1/2 cup tomato sauce:
- Calories: 35
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 500 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamin C and Vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains potassium and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers. It also provides Vitamin C and potassium, supporting overall health.
7. 1/4 cup water:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and is used to adjust the consistency of the sauce. It helps maintain bodily functions and overall health.
8. 1 teaspoon paprika:
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains iron and potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Paprika adds flavor and color to the dish while providing antioxidants and essential vitamins such as Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.
9. Salt and pepper to taste:
- Calories: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Negligible
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
- Sodium: Varies (salt)
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: Salt provides sodium; pepper contains trace amounts of manganese and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation due to its sodium content. Pepper adds a mild kick and contains some beneficial minerals and antioxidants.
10. Olive oil for frying:
- Calories: 120 per tablespoon
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams (primarily monounsaturated)
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamin E
- Minerals: Contains iron and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil is a source of healthy fats and Vitamin E, which supports skin health and acts as an antioxidant. It also contains monounsaturated fats that can be beneficial for heart health.
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