National Dish Brunei: Kerabu (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Kerabu, a bright and zesty herb salad that captures the vibrant spirit of Brunei! This refreshing dish brings together a medley of fresh herbs, crisp vegetables and tender seafood, all lifted by a tangy lime dressing. Light yet full of flavour, it is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Bring a taste of Southeast Asia straight to your own table with this simple, colourful recipe.
About Kerabu
Kerabu is a traditional salad from Brunei, celebrated for its refreshing and lively flavours. The dish unites a variety of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables and delicate seafood, making it a perfect choice for anyone who loves the food of Southeast Asia. A delicious lime dressing ties everything together and turns kerabu into a real taste sensation. Its colourful presentation appeals to every sense, making it every bit as much a joy to look at as it is to eat.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g fresh seafood (such as prawns or squid)
- 1 cup fresh herbs (such as coriander and mint)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peppers and cucumber)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for kerabu, it is important to choose the freshest ingredients you can find. Visit a local market or an Asian grocery to track down good-quality seafood and fresh herbs. Make sure the seafood smells clean and has a glossy, moist surface. Fresh vegetables should be firm and free of blemishes, so you get the best flavour and an appealing, crisp texture.
Preparing the dish
Preparing kerabu is quick and straightforward. Begin by cleaning the seafood and, if needed, cooking it through. While the seafood cools, chop the fresh herbs and vegetables into small pieces. This combination gives a refreshing crunch in every bite. Take care to chop the herbs gently so they keep their fragrant aromas intact.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook your chosen seafood in lightly salted water, then leave it to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped herbs and the sliced vegetables.
- For the dressing, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce and sugar in a separate bowl.
- Add the cooled seafood to the herbs and vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together well.
- Arrange the kerabu on a plate and garnish with lime or chilli slices to taste.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Kerabu is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, provided the sauces and other ingredients are chosen with care. Reach for a gluten-free fish sauce to make sure the dish is suitable for anyone with a gluten intolerance. Most of the ingredients are based on plant and animal produce, which makes this salad an easy fit for a wide range of diets. For a similar naturally light option, try the herb-forward flavours of Ulam.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of kerabu, swap the seafood for tofu or tempeh so you still have a protein-rich component. Use a mix of different vegetables to add extra flavours and textures — a combination of carrots, courgette and peppers gives a crunchy, colourful result. The dressing stays exactly the same, keeping that bright, fresh taste at the heart of the dish. Fans of a similar plant-based salad might also enjoy Acar.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tricks help lift your kerabu. Experiment with different herbs to uncover new flavour combinations. You might also like to add spices such as chilli or garlic for a little extra heat. Fresh fruit, like mango or pineapple, can be mixed in too, bringing a gentle sweetness that balances the tangy dressing beautifully.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of kerabu lies in how flexible the recipe is. Adjust the choice of vegetables and herbs to suit your own preferences. If you love a more intense flavour, for instance, add extra fresh mint. You can also vary the amount of dressing to dial the sweetness or acidity up or down. This lets you shape the dish precisely to your own taste.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient for kerabu to hand, there are plenty of alternatives that work just as well. Instead of fish sauce you can use soy sauce or coconut aminos, which also suit a vegetarian or vegan option. For the herbs, Thai basil or chives make a good stand-in for coriander if you fancy a different flavour. Be creative and try out various combinations — much like the freewheeling spirit of a good Sayur Paku Pakis, the region’s beloved fern salad.
Drink pairing ideas
Several drinks pair beautifully with kerabu, matching its bright flavours while keeping things refreshing. Sparkling water with lime, or a light and fruity white wine, complements the salad wonderfully. For an alcohol-free option, homemade iced tea with fresh fruit and mint is a lovely, cooling choice. A cup of frothy Teh Tarik also rounds off the meal nicely.
Serving and presentation ideas
Thoughtful presentation can noticeably heighten the pleasure of kerabu. Serve the salad in a large bowl or on an elegant plate, garnished with extra herbs and lime slices. Colourful elements, such as red peppers or golden mango, add to the visual appeal. Small dishes of dressing on the side make a neat and practical addition to the spread.
A bit of history
Kerabu has its roots in Malaysian and Indonesian cooking, but it has grown into a national favourite in Brunei. The variety of ingredients reflects the country’s rich culture and its layered culinary influences. Traditionally, kerabu is often served at celebrations and special occasions. Preparing and enjoying this dish brings together the traditions of the different ethnic groups who live in Brunei, and it sits proudly within the wider world of Brunei cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Kerabu
In short, kerabu is a captivating and refreshing dish that embodies the flavours of Brunei. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it is a perfect recipe for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or as a side to a festive spread, kerabu is sure to delight you and your guests. Let the aromas and vivid colours of this dish enchant you, and savour a little piece of Brunei in your own kitchen.
