Go Back
Kankda Jhola

Kankda Jhola

Print Recipe
Odia spicy crab curry with mustard and garlic.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 4–6 medium crabs (kankda), cleaned and cracked
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp mustard seeds
  • 5–6 cloves garlic
  • 1–2 green chilies
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 3–4 tbsp mustard oil
  • 1 pinch panch phoron (optional) or jeera + mustard

Instructions

  • Make the Mustard Paste
  • Soak mustard seeds in warm water for 15 mins. Grind with garlic, green chili, and a little water to make a smooth paste.
  • Boil the Potatoes
  • Parboil potato cubes with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  • Fry the Crabs
  • Heat mustard oil till it smokes. Add a pinch of salt and turmeric to the crabs, then fry until they turn reddish and aromatic. Remove and keep aside.
  • Sauté the Base
  • In the same oil, add panch phoron or mustard + jeera. Add onions, sauté until golden.
  • Add tomato, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook till oil separates.
  • Add the Mustard Paste
  • Stir in the mustard-garlic paste and cook for 2–3 mins on low flame.
  • Simmer the Curry
  • Add 2½ cups of water. Add potatoes and fried crabs. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes till flavors blend.
  • Finish ' Serve
  • Let it rest 5 mins. Serve hot with steamed rice, sliced onion, and lemon.