Tiếng Việt
ไทยDried squid is a seafood dish loved by many people thanks to its rich flavor and easy preparation. However, choosing a delicious, safe product that is truly worth the money is not something everyone knows how to do. In this article, Ola Squid will share how to choose delicious dried squid based on the experience of coastal fishermen, helping you easily recognize quality squid and avoid buying low-quality products.
How to choose delicious dried squid, standard grade 1
To assess whether a piece of dried squid is delicious or not, you just need to carefully observe some external features such as color, the white powder layer, the thickness of the body, the dryness level, and the head and tentacles. Specifically:
Color
Color is the first sign that helps identify the quality of dried squid. Squid made from fresh raw material usually has a natural and even color. When choosing, you should prioritize squid with the following features:
- Belly is a natural ivory white or milky white color.
- Back is light pink, with tiny characteristic black dots.
- Color is harmonious, not overly bright red or unusually deep pink.
- No yellow or brown spots, or signs of discoloration from poor storage.
Body thickness
The thickness of the squid’s body directly affects the flavor after cooking. The thicker the flesh, the more fragrant, sweet, and beautifully fluffy it becomes when grilled. You should prioritize:
- A straight, well-balanced body with little warping.
- Thick, firm flesh that feels substantial in the hand.
- An intact surface with little tearing or crushing.
White powder layer
The white powder layer is one of the characteristic signs of dried squid that has been naturally sun-dried. This is a layer of mineral salts that crystallizes on the surface during the drying process, not a chemical or preservative.
When observing, you should choose squid that:
- Has an evenly spread white powder layer on the body.
- The powder adheres naturally, is fine, and is not patchy.
- Has no unusual white patches or signs of being coated with powder.
See more: Is dried squid with white powder safe to eat?
Dryness level
The dryness level determines the storage ability as well as the quality of the squid. Properly dried squid will have a moderate level of dryness, neither too hard nor still damp. When checking, you should:
- Feel that the body is dry to the touch and does not stick to your hand.
- Notice no dampness or stickiness on the surface.
- Find that after holding it, your hand doesn’t retain a strong fishy smell.
Head and tentacles
The head and tentacles are details that help identify whether the squid was processed from fresh raw material or has been tampered with. A delicious piece of dried squid usually has:
- A head firmly attached to the body, not easily separated.
- Tentacles of a natural pinkish-white color, still intact.
- No signs of being glued or fixed with an adhesive.
How to distinguish real dried squid from fake or low-quality squid
Besides knowing how to choose delicious dried squid, you should also equip yourself with knowledge to distinguish real dried squid from fake dried squid. Below are two simple identification methods you can apply.
Test-grill the dried squid
If possible, grill a test piece of squid before buying in bulk. This is an easy way to evaluate the quality of dried squid.
- Real dried squid: When grilled, it gives off a characteristic seafood aroma, the flesh puffs up evenly, and it has a chewy texture with a natural sweet taste.
- Fake or low-quality dried squid: Easily and unusually scorched, gives off a burnt smell like plastic or chemicals, lacks fragrance, and the flesh is less firm.
>> See more: Tips for making delicious grilled dried squid at home
Signs to identify through appearance
Besides the test-grilling method, you can also carefully observe the external appearance to identify whether dried squid is of guaranteed quality.
- Tentacles: Real dried squid has naturally curled tentacles firmly attached to the body. If the tentacles are straight and stiff, loose, or show signs of being reattached, you should not choose it.
- Eyes: The eyes retain their original shape, without deformity or signs of being artificial. Eyes that are too shiny or unusual may be a sign of a low-quality product.
- Tail: The tail is firmly attached to the body, not easily peeling off or separating when held gently. Squid with tails that come loose easily are usually made from raw material that is no longer fresh or has been improperly stored.
Tips for storing dried squid for a long time
After choosing delicious dried squid, storing it properly will help the product retain its flavor and limit mold during use. You should:
- Seal the dried squid tightly in a zip bag or vacuum bag after each use.
- Store it in a dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding contact with humid air.
- If not used right away, freeze it to extend the storage time.
- Do not leave the squid under direct sunlight or near a heat source.
See details: How to properly store dried squid so it lasts
Frequently asked questions about dried squid
How long does dried squid last?
If stored properly in a sealed bag or vacuum-sealed, dried squid can be used for 6-12 months when frozen. When stored in the refrigerator’s cool compartment or in a dry place, it should be used within 1-3 months to ensure the flavor.
Can moldy dried squid still be eaten?
The answer is no. When squid shows signs of mold or has an unusual smell, you should stop using it as it may affect your health. It’s best to discard the product right away and check your storage conditions.
Where can I buy reliable dried squid?
If you’re looking for a place to buy dried squid of good quality, Ola Squid is a worthwhile option to consider. Products at Ola Squid are selected from fresh raw material, processed under a quality control process, and come with full information about their origin, giving customers peace of mind when choosing.
Hopefully the information shared above will help you easily apply how to choose delicious dried squid and confidently pick quality products for your family. If you’re looking for quality dried squid with a clear origin, contact Ola Squid right away to enjoy the authentic taste of the sea with peace of mind!
