How to Air Fry Dried Squid Easily

Grilling dried squid with an air fryer is a modern method that is both quick and fully preserves the attractive ocean flavor. If you are looking for a way to prepare a delicious, hygienic, and time-saving homemade snack, don’t miss the detailed instructions in the article below!

1. Unveiling the secret to choosing delicious dried squid

To have a delicious grilled squid dish, choosing the right quality dried squid is the decisive factor. Here are a few simple tips to help you easily identify delicious and safe dried squid for your health:

• Delicious dried squid is usually made from fresh squid. After cleaning, it is hung on a string to maintain its natural straightness, with a thick and evenly dried body.
• Prioritize choosing squid with a thin layer of white powder, natural light pink color, straight body, complete tentacles, and thick meat. This indicates that the squid has been sun-dried properly and remains pure.

• Avoid choosing squid with a fishy odor, that is damp, or sticky to the touch, as this may be old squid, not dried enough, or improperly stored.
• Besides the attractive flavor, dried squid is also a rich source of nutrients, high in vitamins B2 and B12, which are good for bone health, cardiovascular health, and immune system enhancement.

See more: How to choose delicious dried squid – the standard way not everyone knows

2. How to grill dried squid with an air fryer

Grilling dried squid with an air fryer is a convenient, clean, and time-saving method, suitable for the modern lifestyle. With just a few simple steps, you can have a plate of fragrant, chewy, and sweet grilled squid to enjoy with family or friends.

Ingredients needed:

• 2-3 dried squid (or adjust according to serving size).
• Chili sauce for dipping.

Here are the steps:

• Step 1: If using dried squid stored in the refrigerator, thaw it completely and drain it before grilling.
• Step 2: Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 7 minutes to reach a stable temperature.
• Step 3: Place each squid on the grilling rack, avoiding overlapping to ensure even cooking and prevent the edges from becoming too dry.
• Step 4: Next, set the grilling temperature to 200°C (392°F) and grill for 5 minutes. Check for doneness; if the squid is not yet as crispy as desired, you can grill for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Step 5: After grilling, use clean newspaper to wrap the squid and gently pound it to soften and remove any crumbs, then tear it into small, bite-sized strips.

See more: Simple and detailed guide to grilling squid in a microwave at home

3. Enjoying grilled dried squid

Grilled dried squid has long been a favorite snack, especially when dipped in spicy chili sauce. However, to refresh your palate, you can absolutely get creative with unique twists on this traditional dish.

An interesting suggestion is to combine grilled dried squid with thinly sliced unripe star apples or mangoes. The crisp, sour taste of the fruit, with a little fragrant Vietnamese balm, combined with the chewy and sweet squid creates a novel and attractive grilled squid salad. Simply mix the squid with mango (or star apple), add fish sauce, chili sauce, sugar, and a little fresh chili, and you will have an irresistible plate of snacks.

4. Tips for grilling delicious dried squid in an air fryer

• Line the bottom of the air fryer with parchment paper to prevent the squid from sticking to the basket, making cleaning easier after use.
• Do not stack the squid; leave a space of about 2cm between each piece to ensure even cooking and prevent toughness.
• There is no need to add cooking oil when grilling in the air fryer, as the dried squid naturally releases enough oil to make the dish fragrant and tender.
• Grill in small batches, avoiding overcrowding the basket to ensure even heat distribution and golden-brown squid on both sides.
• Monitor frequently, adjusting the temperature or time depending on the thickness and size of the squid, to avoid overcooking and burning the squid.
• Clean the air fryer thoroughly before and after each use to preserve the full flavor and prevent old odors from affecting the next grilling session.

See more: How to grill dried squid with alcohol, delicious and simple at home

Grilling dried squid with an air fryer is a convenient and time-saving cooking method that also helps preserve the fragrant, chewy, and tender characteristics of dried squid. If you are looking for a reputable supplier of dried squid, visit Ola Squid – a unit specializing in carefully selected dried squid from clean sea areas, ensuring hygiene and food safety for customers. Ola Squid is committed to bringing you quality products at reasonable prices and fast delivery service nationwide. Check out our range of dried squid products and home page to discover more!