Casquinha de Siri
Brazilian Stuffed Crab Shells
A classic Brazilian beach bar delicacy, this dish features tender crab meat mixed with aromatic vegetables and creamy coconut milk, baked in crab shells (or ramekins) until golden and bubbly. It's a flavorful and comforting seafood gratin.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Cooked crab meat(Freshly cooked and picked, or good quality canned crab meat, drained well. Ensure no shell fragments remain.)
- 1 medium Yellow onion(Finely chopped.)
- 2 medium Ripe tomatoes(Diced. Remove seeds and excess pulp for a less watery mixture.)
- 100 ml Full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp Dendê oil (palm oil)(Adds a distinctive color and flavor. Can be substituted with olive oil if unavailable, but the flavor will differ.)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs(Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well for topping.)
- 50 g Grated Parmesan cheese(For topping.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(Chopped, for garnish (optional).)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the aromatics: Heat the dendê oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it brown.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they break down and release their juices, forming a slightly thickened sauce, about 5-8 minutes.
⏱️ 8 minutes - 3
Gently fold in the crab meat. Be careful not to break it up too much, you want to maintain some texture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the crab is heated through.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy but not soupy.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). If using crab shells, ensure they are cleaned and dry. If using ramekins, lightly grease them. Spoon the crab mixture evenly into the prepared shells or ramekins, filling them almost to the top.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each filled shell or ramekin, creating a golden crust.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 7
Place the filled shells or ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The internal temperature should reach at least 74°C (165°F).
⏱️ 25 minutes - 8
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, high-quality crab meat will yield the best flavor. If using canned, opt for lump crab meat.
- ✓Crab shells can be purchased cleaned from specialty seafood stores or online. Alternatively, use individual oven-safe ramekins or small gratin dishes.
- ✓The goal is a creamy, rich interior with a delightfully crispy, cheesy topping. Adjust baking time slightly to achieve your desired crust.
- ✓Ensure the coconut milk is full-fat for the best creamy texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a lighter flavor, reduce the dendê oil or omit it and use a neutral oil like vegetable or olive oil.
- Add a splash more coconut milk for a creamier consistency, or a touch of heavy cream for extra richness.
- Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers (red or green) along with the onion for added color and flavor.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced chili can add a subtle heat.