In brief
- Caribbean Crab Matété: the traditional Easter land-crab rice of the West Indies
- Origin: Martinique, Guadeloupe
- Essential ingredients: cleaned land crabs, long-grain rice, 3 yellow onions, 5 cloves of garlic, 5 spring onions
- A shared dish, central to family meals and ceremonies.
Origins and cultural history of Caribbean Crab Matété
Caribbean Crab Matété takes its roots in Martinique and Guadeloupe. Matété (or matoutou in Guadeloupe) is THE traditional Easter dish in the West Indies. Rice simmered with land crabs, plenty of aromatics and Creole spices. A festive dish passed down from generation to generation. It is an integral part of the local culinary heritage and continues to be passed down from generation to generation, from family kitchens to the tables of Afro-Caribbean diaspora restaurants in France.
Its preparation brings the family together around traditional flavours and embodies a moment of sharing and conviviality.
What are the essential ingredients of Caribbean Crab Matété
The preparation of Caribbean Crab Matété relies on a few essential ingredients found in most African and Caribbean online grocery stores, including NKOSI.
- cleaned land crabs
- long-grain rice
- 3 yellow onions
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 5 spring onions (cives)
Nutritional benefits of Caribbean Crab Matété
Caribbean Crab Matété provides several interesting nutrients: proteins, fibre, minerals and vitamins depending on the ingredients used. It is a balanced dish rooted in the healthy culinary tradition of Africa and the Caribbean.
Frequently asked questions about Caribbean Crab Matété
Can Caribbean Crab Matété be prepared the day before?
Yes, Caribbean Crab Matété can be prepared the day before and reheated the next day over low heat. Resting allows the flavours to intensify.
How can Caribbean Crab Matété be adapted for vegetarians or children?
You can adapt the recipe by replacing the meat with smoked tofu or vegetables, and reduce the chilli for children.
Where to find the ingredients for Caribbean Crab Matété in France?
NKOSI offers the essential ingredients through its online shop nkosiagro.com, with fast delivery in mainland France.
Find them in the NKOSI shop
- African Baobab Infusion RACINES - 40g
- Garlic Pulp SOKOD'AIL - Handy Condiment - 1kg
- Sweet Spiced Plantain Chips N°1
And for more flavours, browse our NKOSI catalogue — African and Caribbean grocery online.






