Nutty Almond Dried Squid Strips Stir-Fry
Boosted with Nuts for Extra Nutrition: Almond Dried Squid Strips Stir-Fry
My little ones, who used to be picky about nuts, have grown up and now happily munch on them! I’ve made a staple side dish, dried squid strips stir-fry, especially for them, enriched with the goodness of almonds. The crunchy almonds pair wonderfully with dried seafood, adding not only texture but also a delightful nutty flavor and extra nutrition. This stir-fry is simple to make but remember, it’s crucial to stir quickly with both hands over medium-high heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious almond dried squid strips stir-fry, perfect as a side for your children’s meals!
Main Ingredients- Dried squid strips (Ojing-eo silchae) 3 handfuls (approx. 150g)
- Sliced almonds 1 handful (approx. 30g)
Seasoning- Grapeseed oil 5 Tbsp
- Sugar 5 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide 3 Tbsp
- Cooking wine (Mirin) 2 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
- Grapeseed oil 5 Tbsp
- Sugar 5 Tbsp
- Oligosaccharide 3 Tbsp
- Cooking wine (Mirin) 2 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the dried squid strips by cutting them into bite-sized pieces, about 10-15 cm long. If they are too long, they can be difficult to stir-fry.
Step 2
If the dried squid strips feel too stiff, you can lightly toast them in a dry pan to soften them, or microwave them for about 10-20 seconds. This will help them break less and absorb the seasoning better during stir-frying.
Step 3
Heat 5 tablespoons of grapeseed oil in a deep frying pan or wok. Plenty of oil is needed to ensure the squid strips stir-fry evenly without burning.
Step 4
Turn the heat to medium. Add the prepared dried squid strips and 2 tablespoons of cooking wine to the pan. The cooking wine helps to eliminate any fishy odor from the squid and enhances its flavor. This is the crucial step! Using both hands, stir-fry the squid strips quickly and continuously for about 1-2 minutes, or until they become slightly softened and translucent.
Step 5
Once the squid strips are somewhat stir-fried, add 5 tablespoons of sugar and continue to stir-fry rapidly. As the sugar melts, it will coat the squid strips, giving them a glossy appearance and a sweet taste. Stir for about 1 more minute, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 6
Now, add 1 handful of sliced almonds for added crunch and nutty flavor, and stir-fry them together. Gently stir for about 30 seconds, just until the almonds are mixed well with the squid strips, ensuring they don’t burn.
Step 7
When the sugar has completely melted and the sauce has coated the squid strips and almonds evenly, turn off the heat. Add 3 tablespoons of oligosaccharide and a pinch of sesame seeds. Use the residual heat of the pan to quickly mix everything one last time. Oligosaccharide adds a nice sheen and a mild sweetness, while sesame seeds provide a fragrant finish.
Step 8
Transfer the well-stir-fried almond dried squid strips to a serving plate. Once cooled slightly, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enjoy as a side dish for days to come.
