Tender and Savory Soy-Braised Whole Squid Recipe
Delicious Soy-Braised Squid Made with Fresh Whole Squid
Let’s make a wonderfully flavorful soy-braised squid by grilling the whole squid before simmering it. It’s perfect as a side dish for rice or as a delicious appetizer with drinks!
Main Ingredients
- 2 whole fresh squids (choose fresh ones)
- 1-2 Korean green chilies (if you like it spicy)
- 2-3 stalks of green onions
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
Seasoning Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or rice syrup)
- 2 Tbsp cooking wine (or mirin)
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or rice syrup)
- 2 Tbsp cooking wine (or mirin)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, it’s time to peel the squid. Wrap a paper towel around the squid’s body, hold it firmly, and gently press as you peel off the skin. If the skin is difficult to remove, you can try rinsing it briefly under cold water while peeling.
Step 2
Carefully remove the squid’s innards and rinse it thoroughly. It’s important to clean the inside of the body and the area between the tentacles meticulously. Once cleaned, make shallow cuts across the squid’s body; this will help the sauce penetrate better, making it more flavorful.
Step 3
Place the prepared whole squid in a heated pan. Over medium heat, cook the squid, turning it over gently to sear both sides until the surface turns opaque white. This searing step enhances the squid’s natural umami flavor.
Step 4
In a bowl, combine 4 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp vinegar, 1 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp corn syrup, and 2 Tbsp cooking wine. Whisk well to create the braising sauce. Finely chop the Korean green chilies and thinly slice the green onions for preparation.
Step 5
Once the squid in the pan is partially cooked, pour the prepared soy sauce mixture around the edges of the pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the squid from burning.
Step 6
Prepare the garlic by thinly slicing or finely mincing it. As the squid begins to simmer in the sauce, add the sliced or minced garlic and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally. The garlic’s aroma will blend with the squid, adding another layer of flavor.
Step 7
To ensure the sauce penetrates the squid well, continue to simmer over medium-low heat until the sauce reduces to your desired consistency, basting the squid with the sauce periodically. Flip the squid occasionally to ensure even coating.
Step 8
When the braising liquid has thickened and the squid looks glossy, it’s ready! Turn off the heat, cut the squid into bite-sized pieces, and arrange on a plate. Your delicious soy-braised squid is complete! Enjoy it with a warm bowl of rice.
