Soft and Glossy Stir-fried Dried Shredded Squid with Gochujang
Easy Gochujang Stir-fried Dried Shredded Squid: A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
Experience the ultimate side dish! This glossy, tender stir-fried dried shredded squid with gochujang is incredibly delicious and addictive.
Main Ingredients- 200g dried shredded squid (Jinmi-chae)
- 3-4 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3-4 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp oligosaccharide, corn syrup, or honey
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the dried shredded squid according to your preference. You can give it a quick rinse under running water to remove any debris, or use it as is. (If your dried squid is already seasoned, rinsing might slightly reduce its saltiness, so keep that in mind. I personally like to rinse it lightly to help the sauce penetrate better.)
Step 2
If you rinsed the squid, drain it thoroughly in a colander. This step helps the seasoning adhere well and improves the texture. There are two common methods: stir-frying the squid before mixing with the sauce, or mixing it directly with the sauce. I personally find the latter method easier and better for achieving a tender texture, so I often opt for it. Choose the method you prefer.
Step 3
Add 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the drained dried shredded squid. Mayonnaise plays a key role in making the squid incredibly tender and adds a rich, savory flavor. Nowadays, dried squid tends to be less tough than before, so if you find yours already soft and tender, you can reduce or omit the mayonnaise. However, if you want that extra creaminess and deliciousness, don’t hesitate to add it!
Step 4
Along with the mayonnaise, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Sesame oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps in making the squid tender, similar to mayonnaise. I like to add it from the beginning as it helps distribute the flavor evenly.
Step 5
Gently mix the dried shredded squid with the mayonnaise and sesame oil using your hands. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the seasonings to fully penetrate the squid, making it exceptionally moist and tender.
Step 6
Now, add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Minced garlic will add a depth of savory flavor, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
Step 7
Add 3-4 tablespoons of gochujang. You can adjust the amount of gochujang to your taste. If you prefer a milder spiciness, you can reduce the gochujang and add a very small amount of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), less than half a teaspoon. Be careful, as too much gochugaru can make the dish taste dry or clumpy. The presence or absence of gochugaru subtly changes the flavor and aroma.
Step 8
Finally, add 2 tablespoons of oligosaccharide, corn syrup, or honey for sweetness. These sweeteners, unlike granulated sugar, dissolve smoothly, helping to maintain the tender texture without any grittiness. While the mayonnaise already adds a good sheen, these ingredients provide a subtle sweetness and enhance the glossiness, making the dish even more appetizing.
Step 9
Once all the seasonings are added, mix everything together thoroughly with your hands. Ensure the sauce coats the dried shredded squid evenly for the best flavor and texture. Your delicious stir-fried dried shredded squid is almost ready!
Step 10
Voilà! Your glossy, incredibly tender, and savory stir-fried dried shredded squid with gochujang is complete. It’s a fantastic side dish for rice, but be warned – its irresistible taste might have you reaching for it even without a meal! Enjoy this addictive treat.
