Dried squid has long been a familiar and well-loved delicacy in Vietnamese cuisine. With its unique chewy texture and rich, smoky flavor, it can be transformed into a variety of irresistibly tasty dishes. In this article, we will explore several exciting ways to prepare dried squid that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Grilled Dried Squid
Grilled dried squid is one of the simplest yet most delicious ways to enjoy the distinctive flavor of dried squid. With its smoky aroma and slightly chewy texture, this dish is a favorite snack in many Vietnamese households. You can grill dried squid using several different methods:
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Grilling with alcohol:
Place the dried squid on a metal or ceramic plate, then carefully pour a small amount of alcohol over the squid and light it. Use chopsticks to turn the squid evenly on both sides. When the flesh turns slightly opaque and whitish, it is ready to serve — there is no need to overcook it. -
Grilling on a gas stove:
If you have a grilling rack, this method is quick and convenient. Keep the heat very low and turn the squid every 10 seconds until it changes to a light, pale color. At that point, the squid is perfectly cooked. -
Charcoal grilling:
Charcoal grilling follows a similar process to the gas stove method, using a grilling rack or tongs to hold the squid over the heat. This traditional method gives the squid a richer, smokier aroma and a deeper, more flavorful taste.
Dried Squid Stir-Fried with Garlic Butter
Dried squid stir-fried with garlic butter is an irresistibly flavorful snack that is both easy and quick to prepare. With the rich aroma of melted butter and the bold fragrance of garlic, this dish is perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy evening treat. Loved by both adults and children, garlic butter dried squid is a simple yet addictive delicacy you won’t want to miss. Save this recipe and share it with your friends and family!
Ingredients:
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Dried squid
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Butter: 2–3 tablespoons
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Garlic: 3–4 cloves, finely chopped or minced
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Green onions: 2–3 stalks, finely chopped
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Dried chilies: 4 pieces
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Seasonings: pepper, sugar, fish sauce
Instructions:
Step 1: Grill the dried squid until fully cooked. Place it on baking paper or newspaper to soften slightly, then tear the squid into thin strips.
Step 2: Add the shredded squid to a pan with hot oil and fry for about 1–2 minutes. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 3: Peel and slice (or mince) the garlic. Heat some oil in a pan, sauté the garlic until fragrant, then remove and set aside.
Step 4: Add butter to the pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the squid, fried garlic, dried chilies, sugar, and fish sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Turn off the heat, garnish with green onions, and serve immediately.
Spicy Glazed Dried Squid
Spicy glazed dried squid is a bold and flavorful dish, perfect both as a savory snack and as an ideal appetizer for gatherings. With the heat of chili and the savoriness of the sauce, this dish offers an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
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1 kg dried squid (choose medium-sized pieces, about 2–3 fingers wide)
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Sugar
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Ground chili
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Garlic
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Soy sauce
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Cooking oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Lightly grill the dried squid. There is no need to cook it completely at this stage.
Step 2: Heat a pan or pot and add a small amount of oil. Add garlic (adjust to your taste) and sauté until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the ground chili, sugar, and soy sauce. Mix well until the sugar dissolves, then reduce the heat.
Step 4: Add the squid to the pan and toss continuously until it is fully coated with the sauce and the flavors are absorbed. Once the squid turns glossy and well-glazed, remove from heat, plate, and enjoy.
Stir-Fried Noodles with Dried Squid
Stir-fried noodles with dried squid is a simple yet satisfying dish made from easy-to-find ingredients. The chewy texture of dried squid combined with savory noodles creates a delicious and comforting meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
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Dried squid: 2 pieces
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Instant noodles: 2 packs
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Green onions, cut into short pieces
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Minced garlic and chili
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Seasonings (fish sauce, sugar, seasoning powder, pepper…)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the dried squid into bite-sized pieces and remove the tough center fin. Soak the squid in a bowl of water for about 10 minutes until softened, then drain well.
Step 2: Briefly boil the noodles until just tender. Do not overcook, as the noodles may become too soft and lose their texture. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Marinate the softened squid with a little fish sauce, sugar, seasoning powder, and a few drops of lime juice. Mix well and leave it to absorb the flavors for a few minutes.
Step 4: Heat some oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the squid and stir-fry until slightly firm. Then add the noodles and toss everything together evenly. Adjust the seasoning to taste, add the green onions, and give it a quick stir. Turn off the heat, sprinkle with a little pepper and fresh herbs, then serve and enjoy.
Stir-Fried Dried Squid with Pineapple
This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the chewy texture of dried squid, creating a light, refreshing, and appetizing meal that is both simple and delicious.
Ingredients:
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Dried squid: 2 pieces
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Pineapple: ¼ of a fruit, thinly sliced
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Tomato: 1, cut into wedges
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Green onions, chopped
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Seasonings: sugar, fish sauce, seasoning powder, MSG (optional), pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Clean and soften the dried squid by soaking it in water for about 10 minutes, then drain well.
Step 2: Heat some oil in a pan. Add finely chopped shallots and sauté until fragrant. Add the prepared squid and stir-fry until slightly firm and aromatic. Then add the pineapple and tomato, stir well, and season to taste.
Step 3: Continue cooking for a few more minutes until all ingredients are well combined. Turn off the heat, garnish with chopped green onions and a pinch of pepper, then serve and enjoy.
With its unique texture and rich flavor, dried squid can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes, from quick snacks to satisfying meals. These easy and practical recipes are perfect for anyone who wants to explore new ways to enjoy dried squid at home. Don’t hesitate to try them out and add a special touch to your everyday menu.
