Village-Style Spicy Squid

Cooking StepsHow to cook Village-Style Spicy Squid step by step

Cooking Process

1. 
   Step 1 Detail

   Blend onion, apple, garlic, and ginger into a paste. Add chili powder, extra-hot chili powder, sugar, corn syrup, black pepper, five-spice powder, cumin, Korean chili paste, MSG, soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef bouillon powder, and white sesame seeds (optional). Mix well. The amounts in the recipe are a reference — adjust to your own taste. This batch turned out slightly salty; try adding more sweetness next time. The apple really boosts the umami, and the sauce pairs perfectly with rice.

2. Step 2 Detail

   Cut the onion into thin strips, slice the garlic, and cut the bird’s eye chilies and green chili pepper into diagonal strips. Set aside.

3. Step 3 Detail

   Bring a pot of water to a boil with scallion, ginger, and cooking wine. Blanch the squid for about 30 seconds (adjust based on size), then immediately transfer to cold water to keep it crisp and tender. Drain and set aside.

4. Step 4 Detail

   Heat oil in a wok and stir-fry the prepared vegetables until slightly softened. Add the squid and toss to combine, then pour in the spicy sauce mixture. Stir-fry until the squid is crisp-tender, sprinkle with white sesame seeds, and transfer to a plate.

5. Step 5 Detail

   If you have a sizzling iron plate at home, heat it up and transfer the squid onto it — that’s it!