Seafood has always been an essential part of many culinary traditions around the world, particularly in coastal regions where fresh fish and shellfish are abundant. Among the wide variety of seafood dishes, stir-fried squid with seafood is a beloved option in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai cooking. The combination of squid with other seafood ingredients, stir-fried to perfection with aromatic herbs, spices, and savory sauces, creates a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.

This article explores the history and origins of stir-fried squid with seafood, its key ingredients, and the step-by-step process for preparing this delectable dish. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or someone looking to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe will guide you through making an exceptional stir-fried seafood dish that can easily become a crowd-pleaser at your next family gathering or dinner party.

The Origins of Stir-Fried Squid with Seafood

Stir-frying is one of the most popular and versatile cooking methods in Chinese cuisine. It involves cooking ingredients quickly in a wok over high heat with a small amount of oil, which helps preserve the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients while creating a delicious caramelized exterior. The method of stir-frying seafood, particularly squid, is common in many parts of Asia, where the freshness and natural sweetness of seafood are highly prized.

In Vietnam, stir-fried seafood dishes are enjoyed throughout the country, especially in coastal regions where seafood is plentiful. The Vietnamese approach to stir-frying often involves a delicate balance of flavors, with dishes incorporating a combination of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy elements. Stir-fried squid with seafood, or Mực xào hải sản in Vietnamese, is a great example of this approach, where the fresh seafood ingredients are cooked quickly to retain their tenderness and natural flavors while being enhanced by the sauce and seasonings.

Similarly, in Chinese cuisine, seafood stir-fries are often featured in both home cooking and restaurant menus. Chinese stir-fried seafood dishes are known for their bold flavors and the use of a variety of seasonings, such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice wine. The combination of fresh seafood with vegetables and aromatic seasonings creates a dish that is both savory and satisfying. Thai cuisine also embraces stir-fried seafood dishes, with a focus on balancing sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, often featuring ingredients such as lime, basil, and chili peppers.

The combination of squid with other seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or fish, is a popular variation in many Asian stir-fried seafood recipes. The different textures and flavors of the various seafood ingredients create a complex and harmonious dish, making stir-fried squid with seafood a perfect meal for seafood lovers.

Key Ingredients for Stir-Fried Squid with Seafood

The success of any dish lies in the quality of its ingredients, and stir-fried squid with seafood is no exception. Freshness is key when it comes to seafood, as the natural sweetness and delicate flavors of the ingredients play a significant role in the overall taste of the dish. Below are the key ingredients that make stir-fried squid with seafood a standout dish.

1. Fresh Squid

Squid is the primary ingredient in this dish and is known for its tender, slightly chewy texture and mild, sweet flavor. When purchasing squid, it’s important to choose fresh squid that has a clean, ocean-like smell and a firm, translucent texture. Whole squid can be cleaned and cut into rings or left whole, while pre-cut squid rings are also a convenient option for quick preparation.

Squid is often chosen for stir-frying because it cooks quickly and pairs well with a variety of seasonings and other seafood. Its mild flavor makes it a great complement to other seafood ingredients in the dish.

2. Shrimp

Shrimp is another essential seafood ingredient in this stir-fried dish. Its sweet, juicy texture and natural flavor make it the perfect partner for squid. Shrimp cooks quickly, so it’s important to add it at the right time during the stir-frying process to prevent overcooking. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to peel and devein the shrimp before cooking.

3. Scallops

Scallops are a luxurious addition to stir-fried seafood dishes. They have a delicate, sweet flavor and a tender texture that complements the squid and shrimp. Scallops are typically added toward the end of the cooking process to ensure they remain tender and don’t overcook. When purchasing scallops, look for fresh or frozen varieties that have a firm texture and a clean, sweet scent.

4. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are often used in stir-fried seafood dishes for their sweetness, crisp texture, and vibrant color. The addition of bell peppers to stir-fried squid with seafood not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also adds visual appeal. Red, yellow, and green bell peppers are commonly used, offering a variety of colors and a balanced sweetness.

5. Onions

Onions provide a savory base for stir-fried seafood dishes and are typically sautéed at the beginning of the cooking process. They add a mild sweetness and aromatic depth to the dish, which complements the natural flavors of the seafood. Yellow onions or red onions are commonly used in stir-fry recipes, although other varieties can be used depending on your preference.

6. Garlic and Ginger

Garlic and ginger are essential in many Asian stir-fry recipes, and they add an aromatic depth of flavor to stir-fried squid with seafood. The sharp, pungent taste of garlic pairs wonderfully with the zesty, slightly spicy flavor of ginger. These ingredients are often sautéed in oil to release their oils and infuse the dish with flavor.

7. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a staple ingredient in many Asian dishes, and it plays an important role in stir-fried seafood recipes. It adds saltiness, umami, and a rich depth of flavor to the dish. Both light and dark soy sauce can be used in this recipe, depending on whether you prefer a lighter or more robust flavor.

8. Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is a savory sauce made from oysters, sugar, and salt. It adds a rich, umami-packed flavor to stir-fried dishes, making it a popular choice in Asian cuisine. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce in stir-fried squid with seafood helps balance the sweet, savory, and salty elements of the dish.

9. Fish Sauce

Fish sauce is a pungent, salty condiment commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. It adds a layer of complexity and depth to stir-fried seafood dishes. A little fish sauce goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor of the dish, and it pairs beautifully with the other sauces.

10. Fresh Herbs (Basil or Cilantro)

Fresh herbs such as Thai basil, cilantro, or mint can be used to garnish the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the seafood and sauce. These herbs add a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor and help to balance the dish’s richness.

11. Chili Peppers (Optional)

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, fresh chili peppers can be added to the dish. The chili peppers bring a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the seafood and the sauce. Thai bird’s eye chilies or other small, hot peppers are commonly used, but you can adjust the level of spice to your preference.

Step-by-Step Process for Preparing Stir-Fried Squid with Seafood

Now that we’ve discussed the essential ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process for preparing stir-fried squid with seafood. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

• If using whole squid, clean and cut it into rings or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
• Peel and devein the shrimp, removing the shells and tails.
• If using scallops, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• Slice the bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Mince the ginger.
• Cut the chili peppers (if using) into thin slices for an extra kick.
• Set all the vegetables and seasonings aside for easy access during the stir-frying process.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Cook the Seafood

• Add the squid to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it turns opaque and is just cooked through. Remove the squid from the wok and set it aside.
• Next, add the shrimp and scallops to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are cooked through. Remove them from the wok and set them aside with the squid.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

In the same wok, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the garlic and ginger back into the wok.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

Return the cooked squid, shrimp, and scallops to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for another minute or two, ensuring the seafood and vegetables are evenly combined.

Step 7: Add the Sauces

Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a pinch of sugar to the wok. Stir everything together to coat the seafood and vegetables in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more soy sauce or sugar if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the wok from the heat. Transfer the stir-fried squid with seafood to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro. Serve the dish hot with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

Conclusion

Stir-fried squid with seafood is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of tender squid, juicy shrimp, delicate scallops, and crisp vegetables creates a harmonious and well-balanced dish. The savory and umami-packed sauce, along with the fragrant aromatics, ties everything together, making it a truly delicious meal.

By following the simple steps outlined in this

article, you can easily recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply enjoying a quick weeknight meal, stir-fried squid with seafood is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and enjoy the vibrant and delicious flavors of this seafood stir-fry!