Crispy Chili-Glazed Squid (Pan-Seared)

Serves

2–3 people

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Ingredients

Squid

• 500 g (1 lb) fresh squid, cleaned

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or grapeseed)

Chili Glaze Sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1 tsp chili paste (gochujang or sambal oelek)

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp water

Aromatics & Garnish

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

• Fresh red chili, sliced

• Microgreens or scallions, sliced

• Sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Squid

• Slice squid bodies into thick rings or bite-size rolls.

• Pat completely dry with paper towels (very important for crispiness).

• Toss with salt, pepper, paprika, chili flakes, and cornstarch until lightly coated.

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2. Make the Chili Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, vinegar, chili paste, sesame oil, and water.

• Set aside.

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3. Sear the Squid

• Heat a pan over high heat and add oil.

• Add squid in a single layer (do not overcrowd).

• Sear 1–2 minutes per side until golden, caramelized, and slightly crispy.

• Remove squid from pan and set aside.

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4. Build the Sauce

• Lower heat to medium.

• Add garlic and shallot, sauté 20–30 seconds until fragrant.

• Pour in chili glaze and simmer until slightly thickened (about 1 minute).

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5. Glaze & Finish

• Return squid to the pan.

• Toss quickly to coat evenly in the sauce.

• Add fresh chili and turn off heat.

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Plating

• Arrange squid neatly on a plate.

• Spoon extra glaze over the top.

• Garnish with microgreens, scallions, and sesame seeds.

• Optional: drizzle a little chili oil for shine.

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Flavor Profile

🔥 Spicy
🍯 Sweet-savory
✨ Crispy outside, tender inside
🌿 Fresh and aromatic