Ground crayfish is one of the ingredients we use for cooking in Nigeria but if you are familiar with dishes made in other West African countries like Ghana and Cameroon, then you would have come across it. This guide provides an overview of what ground crayfish is, how it is used, prepared, and stored, and its substitutes.
What is Ground Crayfish?
Ground crayfish is made by grinding dried freshwater crustaceans into a powder form. Think of any other spices or seasoning that you blend and treat the crustaceans the same way. It really is a preference thing but some people like it to be ground smoothly while others prefer it to be a little coarse.
When cooking, you do not need to add a lot of it to get the flavor out of it. Just a small amount would do the trick! It is not really meant to be eaten raw (although I have seen some people take a pinch or two).
Uses of Ground Crayfish
Just like ground pepper, it is an all-purpose seasoning that can be added into different dishes. You can add it to the following:
Soups and Stews
When making soups like Egusi Soup, Okro Soup, Pepper Soup, and Oha Soup, you should have ground crayfish ready. A spoon of it can really change how your soup tastes.
Rice and Bean Dishes
It is used to flavor Jollof Rice, Fried Rice, Moi Moi (Bean Pudding), and Akara (Bean Fritters).
Yam and Porridge Dishes
It is often added to yam pottage, plantain porridge, and similar dishes.
Marinades
When combined with other seasonings, ground crayfish can be used to marinate meats, fish, or poultry. It pairs well with spices like garlic, onions, and Nigerian pepper.
How to Grind Dried Crayfish
Grinding dried crayfish is easy. Check for dirt, sand, or thread-like particles, and remove them. If the crayfish is slightly damp, spread it out on a tray and let it air-dry. You can also use a low-temperature oven to dry it but I get nervous doing this because it can sometimes become black. Finally, use a spice grinder, blender, or a traditional mortar and pestle to grind the seasoning to your desired texture.
How to Store Ground Crayfish
If you want it to last long, you must get the storage right. Use a container or a Ziplock bag where air cannot get in. You must prevent exposure to water and air, and keep the container in a pantry or cupboard away from sunlight. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to spoilage.
If your intention is to keep it for an extended period of time, then consider putting it in your fridge or freezer but you still have to make sure the container you use does not have water.
Shelf Life and Signs of Spoilage
It has a shelf life of 6–12 months if you store it right. To determine if it has gone bad, check for loss of aroma, discoloration, or visible mold.
Where to Buy Ground Crayfish
It is available in markets and specialty stores. For those outside Nigeria, it can be found in local African markets, often sold in small or large quantities. Online retailers like Amazon and African food stores with an online presence also stock this seasoning. Ensure you check reviews to confirm product quality.
Substitutes for Ground Crayfish
If are trying to make a meal that you would typically add ground crayfish and you notice that you are out. You can be creative and use substitutes to achieve a similar flavor.
For example, Ground dried shrimp has a similar taste and even the aroma. You can actually buy fresh shrimp, dry it and grind it to achieve a similar taste. Other substitutes you can use include fish powder and Stockfish (which is very popular in Nigeria), to give you a complementary flavor.
In terms of the quantity you add when using these substitutes, it should be similar to what you would do for ground crayfish but ultimately it is really based on your taste preference.
Is Crayfish and Shrimp the Same?
No, crayfish and shrimp are not the same. They do look alike and share a lot of similarities and both are classified as crustaceans.
Is Crayfish the same as Crawfish?
Yes, crayfish and crawfish refer to the same freshwater crustacean. But the preparation is the key distinction. In the U.S. for example where people call it crawfish they usually include it in their seafood broils but in Nigeria we dry it out and use it for its flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Crayfish
Ground crayfish is a source of lean protein. It provides omega-3 fatty acids and contains calcium, and magnesium, and its low-fat content makes it a suitable seasoning for balanced meals. Source: USDA
Nutritional information for cooked crayfish based on data available from the USDA:
By using it in moderation, you can enhance your dishes without adding unnecessary calories.
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