What Is Dried Squid Used For

Squid is one of the world’s most popular seafoods. Like any seafood, squid is versatile and can be grilled, seared, boiled, braised, and dried. In Asian countries like China, Korea and Japan, dried squid is a popular choice not only for its flavor, but also for its affordability. Most Umami cuisine uses a lot of seafood ingredients like dried squid and octopus.

What is Dried Squid?

Dried squid is a popular Hawaiian snack made by drying squid to preserve it and enhance its flavor. It is typically prepared by cleaning the squid, slicing it into thin strips, and then dehydrating it using sun drying, air drying, or modern methods like machine dehydration. The drying process concentrates the squid's natural umami flavor and chewy texture, making it a popular snack in many cultures, particularly in East Asia and Southeast Asia.

Dried squid can be eaten as-is or seasoned with spices, soy sauce, or other flavorings for a more robust taste. It is enjoyed both as a standalone snack and as an ingredient in various dishes. The snack is valued for being high in protein and relatively low in fat, offering a healthy alternative for those seeking savory, portable options.

How is Dried Squid Made?

Dried squid can be enjoyed in many ways; eating it as is, pairing it with nuts served with an alcoholic beverage, dipping it in your favorite sauce, and cooking it as a side dish or main meal.

You can buy dried squid or, alternatively, you can make your own dried squid using several drying methods. Like meat and other seafood, squids are dried to lengthen their shelf life.

Dried squid drying methods

Sun-drying is the most common method of making dried squid. Simply wash the squid thoroughly and split and remove internal organs. Then, spread the washed squid meat on drying trays, pat dry with a paper towel, and dry under the sun. Always remember to turn over once or twice to keep the dryness consistent.

Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator to make the process easier and faster. Before dehydrating, remember to blanch the squid in a large pot of boiling water and shake it dry. Then, put it in the dehydrator at low to medium heat, around 70-90 C. This method might make your dried squid very chewy and not tender.  

After drying the squid, make sure to pack it in a plastic bag and store it in a cool and dry place.

Dried products can last for months and sometimes years.

Is Dried Squid Healthy for You? 

Squid, overall, is good for the body. Drying the squid does not change its taste or nutritional value. Drying it preserves the scent and tastes better.

It contains high-quality protein, fatty acids, and amino acids. Squid has polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega-3) that help soothe the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

This popular seafood dish also does not contain many carbohydrates. It is perfect for those who prefer to consume limited carbohydrates and for those on a keto diet.

However, like any food, squid should be consumed in moderation. Squid contains high dietary cholesterol that might increase your risk for heart disease. In addition, you need to watch out for other health risks like high mercury levels and allergies.

What Does Dried Squid Taste Like

The taste of dried squid can change depending on the manufacturer. Some dried squid may taste sweet, others salty and spicy. Texture-wise, most dried squid can go from Beef Jerky chewy texture to extra dry and tender.

Dried Squid can also be combined with other dishes to create a fusion of flavors. The drying process enhances the flavor of the squid, making it heavenly in strengthening the flavor of dishes.

How to use Dried Squid

Dried squid is commonly sold as a snack. However, you can use it as an ingredient in your favorite dishes. To use dried squid, you must first rehydrate the flesh by soaking it in a bowl of water until it is softened. Harder and more brittle squid has generally been left to soak for a longer time. The semi-dried ones are softer, having a leather-like consistency, and these still retain much of their initial natural flavors.

Rapid Rehydration

To speed up the rehydration process, some people use hot water. While this might work, the nutritional constituents might be adversely affected. A proven method is to soak in an alkaline solution usually affected by baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). A teaspoon to one liter of water is usually sufficient and results in plumper-looking squid. Sadly, it can also negatively affect the taste and nutritional value. Before the squid is used, you can also remove the bones and the protective membranes to ensure a clean look.

Best Use of Rehydrated Dried Squid

Rehydrated dried squids are used in conjunction with other meat options like beef, pork, chicken, etc. These dishes may also feature other seafood like shrimps, and octopus, as well as vegetables. Rehydrated dried squid can also be used to garnish dumpling stuffing or meatballs, and may be minced and added to other dishes. 

When using, take into account that the dried squid might have previously been flavored with barbeque seasoning, chili powder, sesame seeds, and smoky flavors. Hence, you need to factor that in when adding any extra spices to your dishes. Let's look at some Asian dishes that use dried squid.

Why is Dried Squid So Popular?

Dried squid is not only delicious but also rich in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy snack option. Its umami-rich flavor has made it a staple in many cuisines, and it’s particularly loved in countries like China, Korea, and Japan, where it is enjoyed both as a snack and a cooking ingredient.

The art of making dried squid combines traditional methods with modern techniques, resulting in a product that delights seafood lovers worldwide. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or in a dish, dried squid brings a unique taste of the sea to your table.

Popular Asian Food with Dried Squid as an Ingredient

Spicy Dried Squid Banchan

This is a Korean dish that is traditionally served cold. It consists of strips of rehydrated squid which are cooked in a sweet-spicy, chili pepper paste. It can be used as a side dish for rice-based meals or as a snack on its own.

Steamed Pork Patties with Dried Squid

Steaming pork patties with dried squid and other ingredients produces a rich umami juice that can be placed above uncooked rice during steaming. The patties are made with shredded pork and spices. After they are mixed, they are steamed with dried squid in a suitable dish.

Ginatang Pusit

Photo by Ate Cristy Cooking

This is a dish indigenous to the Philippines. The major ingredients are squid and coconut milk. You can prepare this delicacy with dried squid using other ingredients like minced garlic, minced ginger, green chilies, minced onions, ground black pepper, spinach, etc. The squids are first grilled before being added to a broth of the other ingredients and cooked for 10 to 15 minutes.

There are endless possibilities with dried squid in your kitchen. This seafood is bound to add some oriental spice to your meals with minimal effort.

 For more delicious Hawaiian recipes and culinary inspiration, visit here.

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