Glistening, Soft, and Savory Stir-Fried Dried Shredded Squid
Make a Glossy, Tender, and Nutty Dried Shredded Squid Side Dish in 5 Minutes!
A side dish made in just 5 minutes! Learn how to create a glossy, tender, and nutty stir-fried dried shredded squid. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious addition to your meals.
Ingredients- Dried shredded squid 100g (loosened and separated)
- 4 Tbsp cooking oil
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligo syrup)
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- Sesame seeds, a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently loosen any clumps in the dried shredded squid with your hands. If it remains clumped, it will be difficult to season evenly and may be challenging to eat later.
Step 2
Using scissors, cut the loosened dried shredded squid into bite-sized pieces. Very long strands can stick together during cooking or be difficult to pick up with chopsticks. Cutting them to a manageable length ensures a more pleasant eating experience for everyone.
Step 3
Now, place the prepared dried shredded squid in a frying pan heated over low heat. Stir-fry gently, being careful not to burn it. This step helps to remove excess moisture and any gamey odor, resulting in a nuttier and cleaner flavor. Avoid overcooking, as it can become tough or burn. Stir-fry just until it becomes lightly golden brown over low heat.
Step 4
Once the dried shredded squid is lightly toasted, add 4 tablespoons of cooking oil. Continue to stir-fry over low heat, almost like shallow-frying, until it turns a nice golden brown. Since the squid shreds are very thin, they can burn easily, so it’s important to manage the heat and stir frequently. This shallow-frying technique will enhance its crispiness and flavor.
Step 5
Next, pour 2 tablespoons of soy sauce around the edges of the pan and quickly stir-fry to combine it with the squid shreds. The dried squid may already have some seasoning, so it’s best to taste as you go and adjust the amount of soy sauce. If serving to children, you might consider omitting the soy sauce or using a very small amount. Personally, I find that a touch of soy sauce adds a wonderful savory depth.
Step 6
Now it’s time to add 4 tablespoons of corn syrup (or oligo syrup) to soften the texture. It is crucial to turn off the heat before adding the syrup! Adding it while the pan is still hot can cause it to burn easily and can make the final dish hard. Using oligo syrup is recommended over corn syrup as it provides a better sheen and a softer texture.
Step 7
Add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise to incorporate richness and tenderness. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. I often add a little mayonnaise to my dried side dishes; it adds a nutty flavor and a more tender texture, preventing them from being too dry. It also gives the dish a beautiful, appetizing gloss.
Step 8
Finally, add a pinch of sesame seeds and mix well to finish. This will add a lovely nutty aroma.
Step 9
Your glistening, soft, and savory stir-fried dried shredded squid is ready! Its perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, along with a satisfying chew, makes it an excellent side dish for rice. It’s also a great addition to packed lunches or a delightful snack to enjoy with a cold beer.
