Delicious Butter-Grilled Squid (Air Fryer Method)
Perfect Beer Snack! Easy & Flavorful Butter-Grilled Squid with an Air Fryer
Try this incredibly simple butter-grilled squid made with an air fryer, perfect for a snack or appetizer. In just 8 minutes, you’ll have tender and chewy grilled squid with a delightful buttery flavor. Served with a special garlic dipping sauce, it’s an absolute winner!
Main Ingredients
- 2 Cuttlefish (or squid)
- 2 Tbsp Butter (softened at room temperature)
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
Easy Garlic Dipping Sauce
- 3 Tbsp Mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 0.5 Tbsp Honey
- 3 Tbsp Mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 0.5 Tbsp Honey
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the cuttlefish (or squid) thoroughly under cold running water. Pay close attention to the suction cups and clean them meticulously to remove any grit or debris. Carefully remove the stiff quill (or cartilage) from the body. Pat the cleaned squid completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispier texture.
Step 2
Let’s prepare the delicious butter sauce to brush onto the squid. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of softened butter with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix well until smooth. If your butter is firm, you can microwave it for about 20-30 seconds to soften it easily.
Step 3
Using kitchen shears or a knife, score the squid bodies. Make diagonal cuts about 1-2 cm apart. This helps the squid cook evenly, makes it more tender, and allows the sauce to penetrate better. Brush the prepared butter sauce evenly all over the squid. Don’t skip this step – it’s where the flavor comes from!
Step 4
Line your air fryer basket or rack with parchment paper. Place the scored squid on top. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 8 minutes. It’s a good idea to open the air fryer halfway through and flip the squid to ensure even cooking. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and its wattage, so keep an eye on it. Aim for a total of 7-10 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden.
Step 5
While the squid is grilling in the air fryer, let’s quickly whip up the simple garlic dipping sauce. In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, and 0.5 tablespoon of honey. Stir everything together until well combined and smooth. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of black pepper.
Step 6
After 8 minutes, the squid is beautifully grilled, golden brown on both sides, and looking absolutely appetizing. The butter and sugar will have caramelized slightly, giving the squid a lovely sheen.
Step 7
Serve the butter-grilled squid immediately while it’s warm. It’s delicious dipped in the homemade garlic sauce or even store-bought mustard sauce! This makes for a fantastic appetizer or snack to enjoy with your favorite beverages. Give this easy recipe a try!
