Grilled baby squid over charcoal is a delicious dish.
Among the bounty bestowed by the sea, baby squid has long been a familiar ingredient, contributing to the unique identity of local cuisine .
Squid is found in many coastal areas of Central Vietnam such as Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, and Da Nang ... However, with skill and creativity, the people of Da Nang have transformed this seafood into many dishes with unique flavors, closely associated with the life and culture of the coastal residents.
Preparation is important.
What makes baby squid so appealing is, first and foremost, its freshness. Squid that have just been brought ashore have glossy skin, a natural purplish-brown back, and a milky white belly. The meat is firm, elastic, and retains the characteristic sweetness of the sea.
Culinary experts say that baby squid is at its best during the season, from around January to August in the lunar calendar.
This is the time of year when squid are full of eggs, their bodies are plump, their meat is tender, and they have a richer, sweeter flavor compared to other times of the year.
To create a delicious dish, the preparation stage plays a crucial role. After purchasing the squid, it is carefully cleaned, removing the ink sac, eyes, and internal organs, but keeping the roe. Then, the squid is washed with crushed ginger or a little white wine to remove the fishy smell and make the dish more fragrant.
Squid and various vegetables and fruits…
Steamed squid, grilled squid with salt and chili, squid dipped in vinegar.
From those humble ingredients, the people of the coastal region have created many delicious dishes. Among them, steamed baby squid wrapped in rice paper is considered the most representative dish of Da Nang cuisine.
The squid is steamed until just cooked to retain its natural sweetness. When eating, diners wrap it in rice paper with unripe bananas, sour starfruit, cucumber, and various herbs, then dip it in a diluted fish sauce or fermented fish paste.
The soul of the dish lies in the dipping sauce. The savory taste of fish sauce, the spiciness of chili peppers, the aroma of garlic, and the sweetness of squid blend together to create a unique flavor that is difficult to replicate in any other dish.
Da Nang Bay is as beautiful as a painting.
Besides steamed squid, grilled baby squid with salt and chili is also a favorite among many diners. On the glowing charcoal grill, each squid emits an alluring aroma. The outer layer is slightly charred, but the meat inside remains tender, sweet, and flavorful.
Those who appreciate the authentic taste of seafood often choose steamed baby squid with ginger. The simple preparation method helps preserve the natural sweetness of the squid while creating a light and refreshing sensation when enjoyed.
Squid dipped in vinegar is also a dish many tourists seek out when visiting Da Nang. Each squid is dipped in a pot of hot vinegar water until cooked, then wrapped in rice paper with fresh vegetables. The mild sourness of the vinegar highlights the sweetness of the squid meat.
Squid and rice porridge is very nutritious.
Stir-fried squid with zucchini, Quang-style noodles with squid.
Squid is not only found in restaurants, but it's also a staple in family meals in Central Vietnam. Stir-fried squid with loofah is a prime example. The sweetness of the squid combined with the refreshing taste of young loofah creates a simple yet very appetizing dish.
On days when a lighter meal is needed, many families choose to cook squid porridge with rice, mushrooms, carrots, and cilantro. A steaming bowl of porridge is not only easy to eat but also suitable for all ages.
The creativity of culinary artisans is also demonstrated in the Quang-style squid and rice noodle dish. Fresh squid is stir-fried with vegetables and then combined with a rich broth, creating a unique flavor for this famous dish from Quang Nam province.
A bowl of Quang-style noodles with squid and rice, featuring a distinctive flavor.
Squid is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
According to nutrition experts, baby squid is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial to health. It's a nutrient-rich food that retains its natural flavor and is easy to prepare in many different dishes.
However, what makes squid so popular is not just its nutritional value. Each dish also embodies the essence of the sea, the image of boats arriving at dawn, and the everyday stories of fishermen in Central Vietnam.
Therefore, under the skillful hands of culinary artisans, squid is not simply a dish. It is also a way to preserve the flavors of the homeland, spread the maritime culture of Da Nang, and introduce local values to tourists from near and far.
Steamed baby squid is a delicious dish with a distinctive flavor.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/ngon-nhu-muc-com-tuoi-xu-quang-2026061321483452.htm
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