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Japanese Squid Stir-Fry

Serves 4 to 6 Entree seafood, Fish

Japanese Squid Stir-Fry

Japanese Squid Stir-Fry is a beloved staple at home tables across Japan, brought together by the simple yet bold flavors that define everyday cooking. This dish reflects the ingenuity of home cooks who, without the need for elaborate recipes, consistently create meals that are both satisfying and deeply rooted in tradition. It's a straightforward, flavorful dish often shared among family members, embodying the unpretentious essence of Japanese home dining.

Every bite of this stir-fry offers a tender yet resilient texture, with squid rings that have absorbed the warmth of garlic and a hint of chili heat. The generous use of oil ensures a satisfying richness, while a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the savory notes just enough to keep you reaching for more. Salt is added with a careful hand, balancing the flavors perfectly, making each mouthful a harmonious blend that celebrates simplicity at its finest.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Start by thoroughly rinsing 600 g of squid rings under cold running water to remove any sand or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they sear properly in the pan, which helps them develop a nice texture.
  2. Peel and finely chop 4 cloves of garlic. In a large frying pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the garlic and a pinch of chili to taste. Stir constantly until the garlic becomes golden and releases a fragrant aroma, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Add the dried squid rings to the pan, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry them over medium-high heat, tossing occasionally, until they turn opaque and firm to the touch. This should take just a few minutes, as overcooking can make them rubbery.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and immediately squeeze the juice of one lemon over the squid, tossing to coat evenly. This will add a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the squid's natural sweetness.
  5. Taste the stir-fry and add fine sea salt to your liking, mixing well to ensure the seasoning is distributed evenly. Serve the squid stir-fry immediately while it's hot, allowing everyone at the table to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor.
Cover of Authentic Japanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Japanese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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