Adjagbede

Adjagbede

Adjagbede (ah-JAH-gbeh-deh)

Crab in Tomato Sauce

Prep Time 25 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 342 kcal

Fresh crabs simmered in a spicy tomato and onion sauce seasoned with garlic, ginger, and scotch bonnet. A beloved coastal dish from the lagoon towns of southern Benin.

Nutrition & Info

350 kcal per serving
Protein 30.0g
Carbs 15.0g
Fat 18.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ shellfish

Equipment Needed

large pot with lid blender crab cracker

Presentation Guide

Vessel: large communal platter

Garnishes: fresh herbs

Accompaniments: pate, white rice

Instructions

  1. 1

    Clean crabs thoroughly, removing gills and rinsing well.

  2. 2

    Heat oil in a large pot, saute onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add blended tomatoes and cook for 15 minutes until reduced.

  4. 4

    Add crabs and water, place scotch bonnet on top.

  5. 5

    Cover and simmer 25 minutes until crabs are bright red and sauce is thick.

💡

Did You Know?

In the lagoon city of Ganvie, known as the Venice of Africa, fresh crabs for adjagbede are caught right beneath the stilt houses.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large pot with lid
  • blender
  • crab cracker

Garnishing

fresh herbs

Accompaniments

pate, white rice

The Story Behind Adjagbede

Adjagbede reflects the aquatic culinary traditions of Benin's coastal and lagoon communities. The Tofinu people of Lake Nokoue and surrounding waterways have prepared crab dishes for generations, using the abundant crustaceans found in the brackish lagoon waters as a primary protein source.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch and dinner 📜 Origins: Pre-colonial

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