Indulge in the exquisite culinary heritage of French Guiana with Matété de Crabe, a dish that encapsulates the rich fusion of Caribbean, African, and European influences. Matété, derived from the French word "marmite," refers to a traditional cooking pot, while Crabe signifies the star ingredient: crab.
Prepared by simmering fresh crab meat with a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, coconut milk, cassava, and a medley of local herbs, Matété de Crabe is a culinary masterpiece beloved by locals and visitors alike. The succulent crab meat absorbs the flavors of the fragrant broth, resulting in a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with every spoonful.
Served steaming hot, Matété de Crabe is often accompanied by a side of rice or breadfruit, offering a satisfying and wholesome meal that celebrates the bounty of the Amazon rainforest and the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Experience the authentic taste of French Guiana's cultural tapestry with Matété de Crabe, a dish that embodies the spirit of tradition, community, and culinary excellence.
Here's a traditional recipe for Matété de Crabe, a delectable crab dish from French Guiana:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh crab (cleaned and cracked)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 cups water or seafood broth
- 1 cup cassava, peeled and diced
- 1 cup yam or sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup plantains, peeled and sliced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3- Add the crab pieces to the pot and season with ground allspice, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. If using, add the scotch bonnet pepper whole (for flavor without too much heat).
4- Pour in the coconut milk and water (or seafood broth) to cover the crab. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5- Once simmering, add the diced cassava, yam or sweet potato, and sliced plantains (if using). Stir well to combine.
6- Cover the pot and let the Matété de Crabe cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through and the root vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Squeeze in the juice of one lime for a fresh citrusy flavor.
8- Once cooked, remove the scotch bonnet pepper if used, and discard.
9- Serve the Matété de Crabe hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
10- Enjoy this delightful French Guianese dish with rice or breadfruit to soak up the flavorful broth.
Bon appétit!
Nutritional Values:
Providing precise nutritional values for a dish like Matété de Crabe can be challenging due to variations in ingredient amounts, cooking methods, and individual preferences. However, I can offer approximate nutritional information for some of the key ingredients commonly used in the recipe:
Fresh Crab (2 pounds):
- Calories: Approximately 400-600 kcal (varies based on size and species)
- Protein: Approximately 80-100 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2-10 grams (varies depending on type and preparation)
- Carbohydrates: Minimal
benefits:
- Excellent source of high-quality protein.
- Rich in essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc.
- Low in fat and carbohydrates.
Coconut Milk (1 cup):
- Calories: Approximately 445 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 5 grams
- Fat: Approximately 48 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 6 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 2 grams
benefits:
- Provides healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support heart health and provide energy.
- Contains lauric acid, known for its antimicrobial properties.
- Adds a creamy texture to dishes without dairy.
Cassava (1 cup, diced):
- Calories: Approximately 330 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 78 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3 grams
- Protein: Approximately 3 grams
- Fat: Approximately 1 gram
benefits:
- Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Contains fiber, which supports digestive health and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Provides vitamin C, folate, and minerals such as manganese and potassium.
Yam or Sweet Potato (1 cup, diced):
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 41 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0 grams
benefits:
- Excellent source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
- High in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
Plantains (1 cup, sliced):
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 48 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 3 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0 grams
benefits:
- Good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber.
- Contains vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- May help regulate digestion and support heart health.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and the cooking method employed. Additionally, the nutritional content may change if you modify the recipe or use different ingredients. For the most accurate nutritional information, it's best to consult specific product labels or use a reliable online nutritional calculator
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