Tiếng Việt
ไทยNot requiring expensive ingredients or elaborate preparation methods, dried squid fried in fish sauce easily wins over every culinary enthusiast with its rich sweet and savory flavor, aromatic scent, and mild spiciness that stimulates the taste buds. It’s not just a favorite snack but also an ideal “drinking snack” for gatherings with friends and family. So, what makes dried squid fried in fish sauce a “star” in the Vietnamese culinary world? Let’s find out with Ola Squid.
Why is Dried Squid Fried in Fish Sauce So Popular?
Before diving into the kitchen, let’s understand the irresistible appeal of this rustic yet addictive dish.
The Harmonious Blend of Salty, Sweet, and Spicy Flavors
The soul of dried squid fried in fish sauce lies in its savory fish sauce-based glaze, with a hint of sweetness and moderate spiciness. The aroma of grilled dried squid, when coated in the fish sauce glaze, becomes tender, chewy, and deeply flavorful in every strand of meat. Each golden piece of squid, coated in garlic-chili fish sauce, leaves an unforgettable impression on anyone who tastes it.
Easy to Prepare with Simple Ingredients
You don’t need advanced culinary skills. With just a few readily available ingredients like dried squid, good quality fish sauce, garlic, chili, and sugar, you can prepare a tempting dish of dried squid fried in fish sauce in just a few simple steps. This dish is an ideal “lifesaver” for busy days when you still want a flavorful meal for your family to enjoy.
Suitable for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a family meal, a party, or simply a snack while watching movies on the weekend, dried squid fried in fish sauce is always a perfect choice. The rich flavor of the squid combined with the fish sauce makes the dish suitable for all ages and tastes.
Ingredients Needed for Dried Squid Fried in Fish Sauce
Before you start cooking, make sure you have gathered all the simple yet essential ingredients below:
- 2-3 dried squids: It’s best to choose medium to large-sized squids with a moderately thick body and a natural light pink color.
- 2 tablespoons of good quality fish sauce: This will create the characteristic salty flavor and rich aroma.
- 1 tablespoon of sugar: Balances the saltiness, giving the sauce a desirable thickness and appealing color.
- 1 teaspoon of chili sauce: Adjust to your preference to add a mild spicy kick and attractive color.
- Minced garlic and chili: Enhances the aroma and flavor of the fish sauce glaze.
- Cooking oil: Used to sauté garlic and chili, and to coat the squid for a glossy, appealing finish.
How to Make Simple Dried Squid Fried in Fish Sauce at Home
You don’t need to go to a restaurant; you can make delicious, authentic dried squid fried in fish sauce right in your own kitchen. Join Ola Squid on a journey to conquer your taste buds with this addictive dish!
Step 1 – Grill and Shred the Squid
First, grill the squid over charcoal or a gas stove to bring out its natural aroma. Then, gently pound the squid with a mallet or the back of a knife to soften it and make it easier to shred. Finally, shred the squid into bite-sized pieces, not too small and not too large.
Step 2 – Make the Fish Sauce Glaze
Sauté the minced garlic and chili in a little cooking oil until fragrant. Then, add the fish sauce, sugar, and chili sauce, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. This glaze is the “soul” that makes the dried squid fried in fish sauce so appealing and flavorful.
Step 3 – Fry the Squid and Coat with Glaze
Add the shredded squid to a non-stick pan and stir-fry over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until the squid firms up. Then, pour the prepared fish sauce glaze over it and stir continuously to ensure the glaze evenly coats each strand of squid. When the squid turns a beautiful golden-brown and releases a fragrant aroma, it’s ready.
Step 4 – Finish and Serve
Transfer the squid to a plate. You can sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or fried shallots according to your preference to enhance the flavor. Dried squid fried in fish sauce is best enjoyed hot. Serving it with cucumber or fresh herbs will make the dish even more complete. Don’t forget to prepare some cold beer if you want to turn this into an ideal drinking snack!
See more:
- How to make delicious and attractive dried squid with garlic butter
- Guide to making savory salt and pepper dried squid
Tips for Delicious, Tender Dried Squid Fried in Fish Sauce
To achieve a tender, flavorful dish that retains its characteristic taste, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the right type of dried squid: Opt for squid that is not too thick, has a natural light pink color, a dry surface, and is slightly chewy. Overly dry or hard squid will result in a tough and unpleasant texture.
- Grill the squid correctly: Grill the squid just right over charcoal or a gas stove so it cooks evenly and releases a captivating aroma. Avoid grilling for too long, which can burn the squid, make it hard, and lose its natural sweetness.
- Stir-fry the glaze at the right heat: When adding the squid to the pan with the glaze, maintain medium heat and stir continuously. This method ensures the squid is evenly coated with the fish sauce while remaining tender, without becoming tough or burnt at the edges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dried Squid Fried in Fish Sauce
During the preparation and enjoyment of this dish, many people have questions about how to store it or how to adapt it to their personal tastes. Here are some common questions and their answers to help you confidently cook dried squid fried in fish sauce.
Can This Dish Be Made in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can grill the squid in an air fryer at a temperature of 160-180°C for about 4-5 minutes. Then, proceed with making the glaze and frying the squid as usual.
How Should the Dish Be Stored If Not Eaten All at Once?
If you have leftovers, place the fried squid in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator’s cool compartment for 1 to 2 days. When you want to eat it again, simply reheat it in a non-stick pan or microwave. However, it’s best to consume it soon to maintain the deliciousness of dried squid fried in fish sauce.
Can Fried Squid in Fish Sauce Be Made in Advance?
You can certainly prepare the grilled and shredded squid in advance and store it in a sealed bag. When you want to eat it, just make the sauce and fry it again to save time. However, the dish is still best enjoyed immediately after it’s cooked.
Vary the Dish According to Personal Taste
Depending on your preference, you can add toasted sesame seeds, fried shallots, pork cracklings, or thinly sliced lime leaves to enhance the aroma and richness. For children or those who don’t eat spicy food, reduce the amount of chili and add a little more sugar to make the dish sweeter. The flexibility in preparation makes dried squid fried in fish sauce suitable for all tastes.
The dish of dried squid fried in fish sauce is a testament to the wonderful fusion of traditional flavors and simple preparation methods. With just familiar ingredients, you can create a rich dish that stimulates all the senses and brings people together around the family meal. Start cooking today to make every meal a moment of warm togetherness!
Explore our delicious range of dried squid products at OlaSquid!
