Spicy Stir-Fried Squid with Chili Oil

Ingredients:

For the Squid:

1 pound fresh squid, cleaned and cut into thin rings
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Stir-Fry:

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, thinly sliced
1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
1 green onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chili oil (homemade or store-bought)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Optional: Sliced dried chili peppers for garnish

Instructions:

Preparing the Squid:

1. In a bowl, combine squid rings, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
3. Add the coated squid and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Making the Stir-Fry:

1. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and shallot until fragrant.
2. Add sliced red chili and stir-fry for a short time.
3. Pour in chili oil and let it sizzle for a few seconds.
4. Return the cooked squid to the skillet.
5. Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry for another minute to combine flavors.
6. Garnish with green onions and sliced dried chili peppers (optional).

Tips:

For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili oil or add more chili peppers.
You can adjust the level of heat by using different types of chili oil or chili peppers.
For extra flavor, add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or bamboo shoots to the stir-fry.
Serve immediately while the dish is hot and crispy.

Homemade Chili Oil (Optional)

If you prefer homemade chili oil, here’s a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

Dried chili flakes
Sichuan peppercorns
Garlic cloves
Ginger
Star anise
Vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Add dried chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and star anise.
3. Let the mixture simmer gently until the chili flakes and spices release their flavor and the oil turns red.
4. Remove from heat and let the oil cool completely before transferring it to a jar.

Note:The intensity of the chili oil can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili flakes and the cooking time.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious and flavorful Spicy Stir-Fried Squid with Chili Oil. Enjoy!