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Coconut Crab — traditional dish from Port Vila, Vanuatu
Main course Fish & Seafood

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥450kcal
💪35gProtein
🌾11gCarbs
🥑29gFat
🌿2gFibre
⚖️350 gServing

* Per serving · 350 g. May vary.

Allergens

🦐 Shellfish

Coconut Crab

How to order / say it
Say it Rako — [Rah-koh]
Order I'd like to try the Coconut Crab.
Locally Mi wantem Rako plis.
Say locally

A delicacy of coconut-flavored crustacean.

Why try it?

Coconut Crab is a must-try in Port Vila, representing the bounty of local seafood and the unique flavors of Vanuatu's natural ingredients.

How it tastes

The dish has a unique coconut aroma with a rich and slightly sweet flavor, complemented by tender, juicy crab meat.

Origin & History — first documented: 1847

The use of Coconut Crabs began before European contact, as Vanuatu's people indulged in the indigenous crustaceans available. It became iconic as part of the local culture in Port Vila, notably against the backdrop of traditional celebrations.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🐟 1.5 kg Coconut crab
  • 🥛 200 ml Coconut milk
  • 🧄 3 cloves Garlic
  • 🧂 1 piece Chili
  • 🍋 1 fruit Lime
  • 🧂 1 teaspoon Salt

Method

  1. 1 Clean the coconut crab and chop it into pieces.
  2. 2 Marinate crab pieces with garlic, chili, lime juice, and salt.
  3. 3 Cook marinated crab pieces in coconut milk until fragrant and fully cooked.
All Oceania recipes — Vanuatu — Port Vila — Coconut Crab
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