The sizzling blend of late summer and early autumn offers a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, especially when it comes to savoring the flavors of fresh local ingredients. In Nigeria, as in other parts of West Africa, this time of year is celebrated with vibrant street markets filled with the ripest produce. Much like the festive spirit shared along the British shores with crab sandwiches, we have our own cherished seaside traditions.
Imagine a leisurely day at Tarkwa Bay in Lagos, indulging in the zestier version of our coastal favorites. While we may not have the Cornish crab, we are blessed with a variety of seafood readily available in our vibrant markets. So, why not bring a touch of excitement to our taste buds with a spiced-up twist on the classic British delight?
Introducing the ‘Epic Crab, Chilli, and Lime Sandwich’ – a dish that marries the freshness of the sea with the heat of West African spices, perfect for prolonging the summer vibes. This simple yet flavorful recipe brings a taste of the shore to your home, allowing you to enjoy the essence of summer all year round.
Crab, Chilli, and Lime Sandwich with a West African Twist
Prep 20 min
Makes 2
Ingredients:
– 150g mixed crab meat, checked for bits of shell
– 70g mayonnaise
– 1 fresh green chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped
– Sea salt and white pepper
– ½ lime, juiced and zested
– 1 small handful of fresh scent leaf or parsley, finely chopped
– ¼ cucumber, seeded and sliced
– ½ small lettuce, finely shredded
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 40g softened butter
– 4 slices of fresh agege bread or any choice of soft, fluffy bread
Start by combining the crab meat, mayonnaise, and chopped chilli in a large bowl. Season generously with salt and white pepper. Add a zest of lime, mix in half of the scent leaf, and stir thoroughly to infuse the flavors.
In a separate bowl, prepare a refreshing salad by slicing the cucumber into thin half-moons. Discard the seeds to keep it light. Toss the cucumber with the lime juice, shredded lettuce, and remaining scent leaf. Drizzle with olive oil for a simple yet crunchy side.
Assemble your sandwich by spreading a generous amount of butter on the bread slices. Layer the crab mixture evenly, followed by the cucumber salad for added crunch.
In Nigeria, meals are often a communal affair, bringing people together to share and enjoy. This sandwich is perfect for a light afternoon gathering or a beach picnic with family. Similar sentiments are echoed across West Africa, whether it’s savoring delicious shito and bread in Ghana or relishing the fresh seafood of Sierra Leone’s peninsula.
As we embrace more global culinary influences, the question arises: how might you add a personal touch to this dish to reflect the flavors you cherish? Perhaps adding a sprinkle of suya spices for an extra kick? Please share your ideas with us!
For inquiries about this recipe or to share your own culinary creation, reach out to us at food@nowahalazone.com.
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