Easy Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry Recipe for Your Wok Pan

Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry, known as Ojingeo Bokkeum in Korea, is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your palate. Originating from Korean cuisine, this stir-fry features tender squid cooked in a savory, spicy sauce, balanced with a mix of crisp vegetables.

You’ll love this recipe for its bold flavors and the quick, easy cooking method using a wok pan. Wok cooking not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish healthier as it requires less oil and cooks everything in a flash.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you need to make Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry:

• 340 grams squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 1 medium onion, sliced thin
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, sliced thin (red or green, your choice)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Substitutions and Variations:

• If you can’t find squid, shrimp or cuttlefish can be excellent substitutes.
• For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochujang and add a dash of honey.

Preparation Steps

First, prepare your ingredients, which will take about 10-15 minutes.

1. Clean and slice the squid into rings. Pat dry.
2. Slice the onion, julienne the carrot, and slice the bell pepper.
3. Chop the green onions, mince the garlic and ginger.

Prepare the wok:

1. Ensure the wok is clean and dry.
2. Preheat over medium-high heat.

Cooking Instructions: Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry

Ready to start cooking? Follow these steps carefully:

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in the preheated wok.
2. Step 2: Add minced garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the squid and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to curl and turns opaque. Remove from the wok and set aside.
4. Step 4: Add another small amount of oil if necessary, then add sliced onions, julienned carrot, and bell pepper to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Step 5: Return the cooked squid to the wok. Add gochujang, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Toss in the chopped green onions and cook for another minute.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and give a final stir before serving hot.

Essential Note: Be sure not to overcook the squid, as it can become rubbery. 2-3 minutes of cooking time should be sufficient.

Also see: Easy Thai Spicy Basil Fried Rice

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry

• High Heat: Cook on high. This ensures quick cooking and keeps the vegetables crisp.
• Dry Ingredients: Pat the squid dry to prevent it from steaming instead of stir-frying.
• Stir Constantly: Stir continuously to ensure even cooking.
• Pre-mix Sauce: Mixing gochujang, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and sugar beforehand can make the cooking process smoother.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overcrowding the wok. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Don’t overcook the squid; it should be tender, not chewy.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry pairs well with:

• Steamed rice or noodles
• Kimchi or other Korean side dishes (banchan)
• Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a wok or skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the squid rubbery.

The Bottom Line

Korean Spicy Squid Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s easier to make than you might think. The combination of ingredients and cooking methods ensures a dish that’s delicious and satisfying. I’m confident you’ll enjoy this recipe and the process of making it.

Try it yourself and share your experience! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you.

For more delicious wok pan recipes, stay connected with Kit Yum.

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