Chewy Dried Squid and Almond Salad
Summer Side Dish: Making Chewy Dried Squid and Almond Salad
A delightful combination of chewy dried squid and crunchy almonds! This classic Korean side dish, Ojingeochae Almond Muchim, is perfect for when you need a flavor boost. Enjoy this moist and delicious staple that’s sure to revive your appetite during the summer.
Main Ingredients- 2 handfuls of dried squid strips (about 100g)
- 1/3 cup almonds (about 40g)
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame seeds
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (or mirin)
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 0.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup (or corn syrup)
- A pinch of black pepper
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice wine (or mirin)
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 0.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup (or corn syrup)
- A pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the dried squid strips and almonds for the dish. Ensure the dried squid strips are cut to a manageable size, and the almonds are ready to be used as they are.
Step 2
To make the dried squid strips moist and tender, lightly steam them. Once the steamer is producing steam, add the dried squid strips and steam for about 1 minute. If using a microwave-safe steamer, lightly rinse the squid strips, place them in the steamer, cover, and microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes. This method helps retain their moisture for a better texture.
Step 3
Toast the almonds in a dry pan over low heat without adding any oil, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Toasting the nuts brings out their rich flavor and creates a satisfying crunch. While it may seem like an extra step, it truly enhances the taste. Feel free to substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different flavor profile.
Step 4
Now, let’s make the delicious sauce. In a pan, combine 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 0.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp rice wine, 1 Tbsp vinegar, 0.5 Tbsp sugar, 3 Tbsp corn syrup, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well to combine, and then simmer over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Once the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency, turn off the heat.
Step 5
Add the steamed dried squid strips and the toasted almonds to the pan with the prepared sauce. Using a spatula or chopsticks, gently mix everything together, ensuring that the sauce coats the squid strips and almonds evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the squid tough.
Step 6
Finally, sprinkle 0.5 Tbsp of sesame seeds over the mixture and gently toss to combine. The sesame seeds add a final touch of nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Step 7
Your moist and delicious Chewy Dried Squid and Almond Salad is ready! This dish is a perfect accompaniment to a hot bowl of rice, making a simple meal feel extra special. Enjoy this delightful summer side dish! ^^
