Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal? Look no further than Inihaw na Pusit, a delightful Filipino grilled squid dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion. Its smoky char and vibrant flavors will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, ensuring a delicious result every time. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings or lengthwise
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare the squid: Clean the squid thoroughly, removing the innards and beak. Rinse well and cut into your preferred size – rings are classic, but lengthwise cuts work well too. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures even grilling and prevents sticking.
Marinate the Squid:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, calamansi juice, vinegar, garlic, pepper, and salt.
- Add the squid rings to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your squid will be.
Grill the Squid:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat with a little cooking oil.
- Carefully place the marinated squid on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the squid is cooked through and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become tough. The squid should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the grilled squid from the grill and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and chili flakes (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious Inihaw na Pusit with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the Best Inihaw Na Pusit:
- Choose fresh squid: The quality of your squid greatly impacts the taste. Look for firm, shiny squid with a fresh, mild smell.
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the squid enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the marinade to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your preference. A touch of ginger or a dash of fish sauce can add extra depth of flavor.
- Watch the cooking time: Overcooked squid becomes tough, so keep a close eye on it while it grills.
Variations:
- Spicy Inihaw na Pusit: Add a few slices of chili peppers to the marinade for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory Inihaw na Pusit: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the marinade for a hint of sweetness.
- Inihaw na Pusit with Lemon: Substitute lemon juice for calamansi juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size, but a serving of Inihaw na Pusit generally provides a good source of protein and is relatively low in calories and fat.
This Inihaw na Pusit recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Its quick preparation time and delicious taste make it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!