Savory and Slightly Sweet Grilled Dried Squid
How to Make Tender and Delicious Grilled Dried Squid (Perfect with Beer!)
This recipe is inspired by a Japanese method where dried squid is soaked in a savory soy sauce mixture and then grilled to tender perfection. I slightly reduced the soy sauce for my taste, and it turned out to be incredibly addictive, making it hard to stop reaching for more! It’s truly an excellent accompaniment to beer. The contrast between the slightly crispy exterior and the chewy yet tender interior is superb. Enjoy this simple yet special grilled squid dish for a delightful time!
Main Ingredients
- 2 dried squids
Savory Soy Marinade
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 Tbsp sake (or mirin)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 Tbsp sake (or mirin)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the delicious marinade for the dried squid. In Japan, they often use sake or mirin instead of water and sugar, but I personally prefer using water and sugar for a cleaner taste. If you choose to use sake (or mirin), use the same amount as the soy sauce.
Step 2
Place the dried squid into the prepared marinade and let it soak for at least one hour. Remember to flip the squid halfway through to ensure it absorbs the marinade evenly on all sides.
Step 3
I let the squid marinate while I attended to a few things, and before I knew it, two hours had passed! As you can see in the photo, the dried squid has plumped up nicely, having absorbed plenty of the marinade. The soy sauce mixture has truly seeped into the squid.
Step 4
Once marinated, remove the dried squid from the liquid and place it on a plate. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before grilling. This resting period allows the marinade to penetrate the squid’s surface even further, resulting in a more flavorful grilled squid. You can also prepare it in advance, refrigerate it, and grill it whenever you feel like it.
Step 5
While grilling directly over flame would be ideal, I’ll be using a frying pan over medium heat for a gentle cook. Grilling slowly over low to medium heat will bring out the squid’s chewy texture without burning it.
Step 6
Once grilled, make cuts along the edges of the squid with scissors. This will make it easier to tear and eat. Your delicious grilled squid is now ready to be enjoyed!
