Tender and Savory Soy-Glazed Dried Shredded Squid: An Easy Recipe for a Delicious Side Dish
Soy-Glazed Dried Shredded Squid
Introducing a beloved Korean side dish, Soy-Glazed Dried Shredded Squid! Its chewy yet tender texture makes it incredibly addictive with rice. Try this recipe to use up dried shredded squid you might have in your pantry. The savory and sweet flavor combination will awaken your appetite. It’s a simple side dish perfect for any meal, and you won’t be able to stop at just one bite. Shall we get started?
Ingredients- 100g Dried Shredded Squid: Choose squid that offers a pleasant chew.
- 2 Tbsp Mayonnaise: The secret ingredient for making the squid tender and moist.
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce: Essential for adding that savory umami flavor.
- 1 Tbsp Sugar: Balances the flavors, making it appealing even to children.
- 1 Tbsp Oligosaccharide (or corn syrup): Adds a glossy finish and a subtle sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp Cooking Wine (or Mirin): Helps to eliminate any fishy odor from the squid and enhances flavor.
- 1/2 Tbsp Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent aroma that deepens the dish’s complexity.
- Pinch of Black Pepper: A touch of spiciness to balance the overall taste.
- Pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds: For a nutty aroma and a visually appealing garnish.
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil: Added at the end for a rich, nutty finish.
- 2 Tbsp Water: To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick and concentrated.
- Vegetable Oil, as needed: For stir-frying.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by preparing the dried shredded squid. First, rinse 100g of dried shredded squid in lukewarm water 3 to 4 times. This process removes any impurities and makes the squid more tender. After rinsing, gently squeeze the squid with your hands to check if it has softened. Then, squeeze out as much water as possible. Be careful not to over-squeeze, as it might become too dry.
Step 2
Next, cut the squid into bite-sized pieces. Using scissors makes this task easier. Cutting them into lengths of about 5-7 cm will make them comfortable to eat and ensure the sauce coats them evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 3
Here’s the secret to tender squid! This step involves using mayonnaise. Place the prepared dried shredded squid in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Use chopsticks to mix the squid thoroughly, ensuring each strand is coated with the mayonnaise. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the mayonnaise to penetrate the squid, resulting in a wonderfully moist and tender texture.
Step 4
Now, let’s start creating the delicious sauce. Place a frying pan over low heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil. Add 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Once the garlic aroma fills the air, move on to the next step.
Step 5
Add the seasoning ingredients to the pan. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of oligosaccharide, and 1 tablespoon of cooking wine. Sprinkle in a bit of black pepper, and add 2 tablespoons of water to prevent the sauce from reducing too much.
Step 6
It’s time for the sauce to bubble! Keep the heat on low. Once the sauce begins to simmer gently, reduce the heat to its lowest setting. This prevents the sauce from burning and allows the flavors to meld beautifully with the squid.
Step 7
The final stir-frying stage. Add the dried shredded squid, which has been coated with mayonnaise, to the simmering sauce over low heat. It’s important to mix quickly so the sauce coats the squid evenly. Stir-fry for less than a minute, then immediately turn off the heat. Overcooking can make the squid tough.
Step 8
Time to add the finishing touches for perfect flavor. With the heat off, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Gently toss to coat the squid with the fragrant sesame oil. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of toasted sesame seeds over the top. Your delicious Soy-Glazed Dried Shredded Squid is now complete!
Step 9
Your delicious Soy-Glazed Dried Shredded Squid is ready to be served with a warm bowl of rice! Doesn’t its glossy appearance and appetizing look make you want to dig in? Now, all that’s left is to enjoy!
