Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Guadeloupe with our exquisite Crab Matet, a cherished culinary gem of the Caribbean. Infused with the vibrant spirit of the archipelago, this dish captures the essence of local culture and culinary heritage.

Crafted with meticulous care, fresh crab meat is marinated in a symphony of aromatic spices, including thyme, garlic, and scotch bonnet peppers, lending a tantalizing kick to every bite. Slow-cooked to perfection in a savory tomato-based sauce, this savory delicacy is then served atop a bed of fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that dance on your palate.

Whether you're a seasoned epicurean or a curious adventurer, our Crab Matet promises a culinary journey like no other, inviting you to savor the richness of Guadeloupean tradition with every delectable spoonful. Embark on a gastronomic odyssey and discover why Crab Matet remains a beloved treasure of Guadeloupe's culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) of fresh crab, cleaned and cracked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional, adjust according to spice preference)
• 2 cups (about 480ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (about 240ml) water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions:

1- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

2- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

3- Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and whole Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

4- Add the cleaned and cracked crab to the pot, stirring well to coat it with the aromatic vegetables.

5- Pour in the coconut milk and water, ensuring that the crab is submerged in the liquid. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the crab cook in the flavorful broth for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through and tender.

7- Once the crab is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the crab matet and give it a final gentle stir.

8- Serve the crab matet hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness and color.

Enjoy your Guadeloupean Crab Matet, savoring the rich flavors and spices of the Caribbean! Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less Scotch bonnet pepper. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Values :

Fresh crab (2 lbs or about 907 grams):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 50 grams
• Fat: 2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams

benefits : Rich source of high-quality protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc, which support immune function and promote healthy metabolism.

Olive oil (2 tablespoons or about 30 ml):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams

benefits : Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which may help protect against chronic diseases.

Onion (1 medium-sized onion):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

benefits : Contains antioxidants such as quercetin and sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, supports digestive health, and may help lower blood sugar levels.

Garlic (4 cloves):

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams

benefits : Known for its immune-boosting properties, contains sulfur compounds that have antibacterial and antiviral effects, may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and supports heart health.

Bell pepper (1 medium-sized pepper):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 6 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

benefits : Excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health, contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and quercetin that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

Tomatoes (2 medium-sized tomatoes):

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 11 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams

benefits : Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers, provides vitamins A, C, and K, and supports skin and eye health.

Coconut milk (2 cups or about 480 ml):

• Calories: 960 kcal
• Protein: 8 grams
• Fat: 96 grams
• Carbohydrates: 16 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams

benefits : Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily digestible and provide a quick source of energy, rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties, and provides essential minerals like manganese, copper, and iron.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific type and brand of ingredients used, as well as variations in preparation methods.