Singaporean chili crab is a nationally iconic dish built on a spicy, sweet, and savory tomato-chili sauce, and this recipe translates those flavors into burger form. Crab is seasoned with the signature sauce and loaded into a bun for a fast, handheld dinner. The balance of heat and sweetness is what defines the dish.
Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of crab meat, 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 beaten large eggs, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Mix until evenly combined, ensuring the mixture binds well.
Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. They should be firm to ensure they hold together during cooking.
Cook the Patties: Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add a little oil and place the patties into the pan, cooking for around 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Listen for a sizzle and wait for a crisp finish.
Assemble the Burger: Spread a generous tablespoon of chili sauce on each toasted bun half. Place a slice of lettuce, then a crab patty, a couple of slices of tomato, and crown with the bun top.
Notes
Lisa’s Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding finely chopped green onions to the crab mixture.
Substitute chili sauce with Sriracha for a spicier kick.
To save time, lettuce and tomatoes can be prepared in advance.