Home Cook Together. Celebrate Life.

FilipinoAuthentic Cuisine

Filipino Squid Stir-Fry

Serves 4 to 6 Entree seafood, Fish

Filipino Squid Stir-Fry

Filipino Squid Stir-Fry is a beloved staple at home-cooked meals across the Philippines, often gracing the table during family dinners or casual gatherings. The dish showcases the straightforward yet flavorful approach of Filipino cuisine, where each ingredient is treasured and seasoned by hand rather than measure. This home version captures the essence of Filipino cooking, with its emphasis on simplicity and communal dining.

Expect tender rings of squid infused with the warmth of garlic and a delicate heat from chili. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish, while fine sea salt elevates its natural brininess. Generous use of oil ensures a rich mouthfeel, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

  • 600 gsquid rings
  • 4 clovesgarlic
  • 2 tbspoil
  • to tastechili
  • lemonjuiced
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by ensuring the 600 g squid rings are thoroughly cleaned and patted dry with paper towels. Drying the squid is crucial to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying, affecting the texture.
  2. In a large wok or heavy skillet, heat 2 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden, releasing its aroma into the oil.
  3. Add the squid rings to the pan, spreading them out in a single layer. Stir-fry them quickly, ensuring each piece is coated with the aromatic oil. Cook the squid only until it turns opaque and tender, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooking will make the squid rubbery.
  4. Add chili to taste, adjusting the heat level according to your preference. Stir well to distribute the chili evenly, allowing its heat to infuse the dish.
  5. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the squid, stirring to combine. The acidity will balance the flavors and enhance the freshness of the dish.
  6. Season with fine sea salt to taste, stirring to ensure even distribution. Taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary, remembering that the salt should enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
  7. Serve the Filipino Squid Stir-Fry immediately while it's hot, ensuring the squid remains tender and the flavors are vibrant. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, with its aromatic and slightly spicy profile.
Cover of Authentic Filipino Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Filipino Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Filipino volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

Explore Filipino cuisine