Are you craving a flavorful and easy weeknight meal? Look no further! This salted chilli squid recipe is the perfect solution for busy cooks who don't want to compromise on taste. This recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and spicy, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this delicious dish – perfect for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground white pepper
- 2 spring onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Squid: Clean the squid thoroughly, removing the innards and the beak. Cut the squid bodies into rings, keeping them relatively uniform in size for even cooking. Pat the squid rings dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely during cooking.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Cook the Squid: Add the squid rings to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they turn opaque and slightly curled. Overcooking will make the squid tough, so be mindful of the cooking time.
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Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and white pepper.
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Combine and Finish: Pour the sauce over the squid in the wok. Stir well to ensure the squid is evenly coated. Continue to stir-fry for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the squid completely.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the wok from the heat. Garnish the salted chilli squid with sliced spring onions and fresh coriander leaves (if using). Serve immediately with steamed rice or as a standalone appetizer. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Tips for the Best Salted Chilli Squid:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the squid in batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chilies or use milder chili varieties.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked squid will be tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns opaque.
- Fresh ingredients are key: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor of the dish.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snow peas for added flavor and nutrition.
- Different protein: You could substitute the squid with other seafood like prawns or scallops.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of Sichuan peppercorns for a unique aroma and a slight numbing sensation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 5-10g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
This salted chilli squid recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick and easy meals. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!