Tamarind crab

Method

1. 1 Soak the crabs in ice water for 10 minutes to stun them, then separate the shells, remove the underside, and cut the crab bodies in half.
2. 2 Soak the tamarind in 80 ml of warm water for 5 minutes, then strain to extract the juice.
3. 3 Fry the crab in hot oil for 5 minutes until the skin turns red and the meat is firm.
4. 4 Sauté minced garlic and shallots, then add tamarind juice, sugar, and fish sauce and simmer for 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. 5 Add the crab to the pan and simmer over medium heat for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the sauce to penetrate every crevice of the claws.
6. 6 Sprinkle with chili, green onions, and pepper, then serve hot.