Crispy and Chewy Dried Shredded Squid Fritters
Chef Baek’s Addictive Dried Shredded Squid Fritter Recipe
Do you usually make stir-fried dried shredded squid as a simple side dish? I decided to try making fritters with dried shredded squid after seeing Chef Baek make them, and it turned out to be a completely unique delicacy! The combination of a crispy exterior and chewy interior is incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients- Dried shredded squid (Jinmichae), 1 handful (approx. 50g)
- Fritter mix/flour, 1 cup (approx. 100g)
- Cooking oil, for deep-frying
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Soften the Dried Shredded Squid: First, prepare about a handful of dried shredded squid. We’ll make the tough texture softer. Place the dried shredded squid in a bowl and cover with water. Let it soak for about 5 minutes. This process allows the squid to absorb moisture, resulting in a tender and chewy texture. After 5 minutes, drain the squid thoroughly using a sieve. If the strands are too long, you can cut them into bite-sized pieces (about 5-7 cm) with scissors for easier frying.
Step 2
Prepare the Delicious Fritter Batter: In a bowl, add 1 cup of fritter mix. Gradually add water while mixing until you achieve a batter consistency. The batter should be relatively thin, flowing easily rather than being thick. This ensures an even coating on the squid without clumping, leading to a crispy texture. Add the drained dried shredded squid to the prepared batter. Use chopsticks or a fork to ensure the batter coats the squid evenly.
Step 3
Deep-Fry to Perfection: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pot or deep pan to about 170-180°C (340-350°F). Carefully drop the battered dried shredded squid into the hot oil, one by one, ensuring they don’t stick together. It’s important to maintain some space between the pieces while frying. Fry until the squid turns a golden brown color. For an extra crispy texture, you can double-fry: remove the fritters after the first fry, let them rest for about 10 seconds, and then fry them again.
Step 4
Your Addictive Jinmichae Fritters Are Ready!: Once golden brown and crispy, remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Now, your Jinmichae fritters are ready! They boast a wonderfully crispy exterior and a satisfyingly chewy interior. You’ll find them so delicious that you won’t be able to stop at just one – truly an addictive treat. They are perfect served hot, but are also delicious at room temperature. Enjoy these fritters as a fantastic snack or accompaniment to your favorite beverage!