How to Grill Dried Squid with Alcohol: Delicious & Easy Homemade Method

No need for charcoal grills or elaborate equipment; with a little bit of squid grilling alcohol, you can personally prepare a fragrant, crispy, and sweet grilled dried squid right at home. This is a simple method that yields a rich flavor, reminiscent of cozy gatherings with family and friends. So, is using squid grilling alcohol safe? How can you grill squid just right without burning it? In the article below, Ola Squid will help you answer all your questions about this.

Is grilling squid with alcohol harmful?

This is a very common question, especially for those trying this convenient grilling method for the first time. The good news is that if you use 70-degree ethanol alcohol (medical alcohol) or specialized food-grade alcohol, you can be completely assured of its safety when used correctly.

However, you must never use methanol alcohol. This type of alcohol is extremely toxic, volatile, and can be absorbed into the squid during the grilling process, causing serious health problems. To avoid risks, you should purchase alcohol with clear labeling, sold in supermarkets or reputable stores, specifically intended for food preparation.

How to safely and evenly grill squid with alcohol at home

With just a little alcohol and a few simple tools, you can grill dried squid at home while ensuring its delicious flavor, without burning or smoke, unlike charcoal grilling.

Ingredients and tools to prepare

• Dried squid: Choose squid with a thick body, a natural light pink color, free from mold or strange odors.
• Squid grilling alcohol: It is best to use 70-degree ethanol alcohol or specialized food-grade alcohol. Do not use alcohol of unknown origin.
• Tools: Tongs, a lighter, a ceramic bowl or a metal can lid to hold the alcohol.
• Location: Grill in a place with light ventilation, avoid enclosed spaces to minimize smoke and the risk of fire.

Steps to properly grill squid with alcohol

• Step 1: Pour a moderate amount of alcohol into the ceramic bowl or can lid.
• Step 2: Light the alcohol and hold the squid about 10 to 15 cm away from the flame.
• Step 3: Use tongs to rotate the squid evenly so it cooks slowly and doesn’t burn. Grill each side for about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Step 4: When the squid starts to puff up slightly and releases a fragrant aroma, continue to flip both sides evenly to ensure the squid is cooked through and not burnt.
• Step 5: After the squid is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes before tearing it into small pieces to maintain its chewiness and natural sweetness.

Tips for delicious, non-burnt grilled squid

To ensure your alcohol-grilled squid retains its delicious flavor, cooks evenly, and doesn’t burn, keep the following tips in mind:

• Use only a moderate amount of alcohol; do not pour too much to avoid high flames that are difficult to control.
• Grill one squid at a time to easily monitor and adjust the distance from the flame.
• After grilling, you can tear the squid into small pieces and stir-fry them briefly in a dry pan if you want to increase crispiness and flavor.
• If you have alcohol gel, it is recommended to use it as it provides a more stable flame, less smoke, and is easier to control than regular liquid alcohol.

Besides grilling squid with alcohol, you can also refer to how to grill dried squid using an air fryer or grill dried squid using a microwave at home.

Tips for enjoying grilled dried squid like a pro

After grilling, it’s time to fully savor the flavor of the fragrant dried squid. To make each bite more memorable, don’t miss these little tips:

What to eat with it to enhance the flavor

• Grilled squid pairs perfectly with rich dipping sauces like chili sauce mixed with mayonnaise, salt and lime, or chili garlic fish sauce.
• Eating it with cucumber and Vietnamese coriander helps balance the saltiness and provides a refreshing sensation.
• If serving as a snack with drinks, a cold can of beer will perfectly highlight the sweet, chewy flavor of the dried squid.

How to tear and present squid beautifully

• Gently pound the squid with a mallet after grilling to soften it and make it easier to tear.
• Tear along the grain of the meat, evenly, to maintain a moderate chewiness and prevent the squid strips from breaking apart.
• When arranging on a plate, use a ceramic plate or one lined with banana leaves or foil. Add a few slices of fresh lime and chili sprigs to make the dish more appealing and visually attractive.

Important notes when grilling squid with alcohol

Grilling squid with alcohol is simple and convenient, but it also carries risks if not done carefully. To ensure your safety and the safety of those around you, please remember the following points:

• Absolutely do not use methanol alcohol (unrefined industrial alcohol). This alcohol is highly toxic, can cause poisoning if it gets into food, and is extremely dangerous when burned.
• Keep children away from the grilling area, as alcohol flames can flare up quickly and are difficult to control.
• Do not grill squid in enclosed or cramped spaces, as alcohol fumes can cause suffocation and increase the risk of fire.
• Always have a mini fire extinguisher or a large wet towel nearby in case the fire spreads unexpectedly.

Answering frequently asked questions about grilling squid with alcohol

Although grilling squid with alcohol is quite common and easy to do, many people still have concerns about its safety, flavor, and how to choose ingredients. Here are the most frequently asked questions.

Why is squid easily burnt when grilled with alcohol?

Squid gets burnt mainly because it is placed too close to the flame or is left too long without being turned. Alcohol burns intensely and quickly, so you need to adjust the distance appropriately (about 10-15 cm) and frequently flip the squid to control the heat.

Is alcohol-grilled squid as delicious as charcoal-grilled squid?

Both methods have their own distinct flavors. Alcohol-grilled squid retains its moisture, sweetness, and aroma, while charcoal-grilled squid has a richer smoky flavor. If you know how to control the flame and grill properly, alcohol-grilled squid can still be very appealing and convenient, especially for quick gatherings.

What type of alcohol should be used for grilling squid?

It is best to use 70-degree ethanol alcohol, commonly sold at pharmacies or large supermarkets. Avoid using alcohol of unknown origin, unlabeled alcohol, or industrial alcohol due to potential health risks.

Can children eat alcohol-grilled squid?

This dish can be given to children if you grill it thoroughly, ensuring no alcohol fumes remain and the squid is soft and easy to chew. However, for children under 3 years old, it should be limited as their digestive systems are still developing and may have difficulty processing dry, chewy food.

Alcohol grilling for squid is not only a convenient cooking method but also offers an enjoyable culinary experience. With the detailed notes and instructions from Ola Squid, you can perfectly grill fragrant, restaurant-quality dried squid right in your own kitchen. We wish you delicious meals filled with flavor and laughter with your loved ones!