Spicy & Sweet Stir-Fried Squid (Ojingeo Bokkeum)
Spicy & Sweet Stir-Fried Squid (Ojingeo Bokkeum)
Irresistible Flavor! Spicy and Sweet Stir-Fried Squid
Craving a delicious dinner option? Today, I’m sharing a recipe for Ojingeo Bokkeum, a popular Korean dish known for its spicy and sweet flavors. Made with fresh, plump squid, this dish is incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for mixing with rice or enjoying as a delightful appetizer with drinks. The tender squid, scored for better texture and flavor absorption, combined with crisp vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced and flavorful experience.
Main Ingredients- 3 whole squids (body only, choose fresh and plump ones)
- 1/8 head of cabbage (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 carrot (thickly julienned)
- 1 stalk of the white part of a leek (cut into large pieces)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (rice wine for cooking)
- 4 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp Minced Ginger
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp Sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 2 Tbsp Plum Extract (adds gloss and sweetness)
- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Mirin (rice wine for cooking)
- 4 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp Minced Ginger
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp Sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 2 Tbsp Plum Extract (adds gloss and sweetness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the squid by cleaning it thoroughly. Make deep diagonal cuts in a crosshatch pattern on the inside of the squid body. This scoring helps the marinade penetrate better and improves the texture. In a bowl, combine the scored squid with about half of the prepared seasoning mixture and gently toss to coat. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This marination step infuses the squid with rich flavor.
Step 2
Heat a pan over medium heat and add about 4 tablespoons of cooking oil (or sesame oil). Add the large pieces of leek and stir-fry until fragrant and slightly softened, being careful not to burn them. This step creates aromatic leek oil, significantly enhancing the dish’s flavor.
Step 3
Once the leeks start to turn translucent, add the bite-sized pieces of cabbage and stir-fry together. Cook until the cabbage becomes slightly translucent, which helps to bring out its natural sweetness.
Step 4
When the cabbage is somewhat tender, add the julienned carrots and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes. Carrots can become mushy if overcooked, so cook them just until they are tender-crisp. You’ll notice a savory aroma as the vegetables start to cook together.
Step 5
With the vegetables slightly cooked, add all the marinated squid and the remaining seasoning mixture to the pan. Stir-fry over high heat to combine everything quickly. Once the squid begins to cook, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Cooking with the lid on ensures the squid remains tender and the flavors meld together beautifully without becoming tough.
Step 6
This is the final step! Just before turning off the heat, add the remaining chopped leek, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of 2 sesame seeds. Stir everything lightly to combine. The sesame oil and seeds add a wonderful nutty aroma and finishing touch.
Step 7
Transfer the delicious stir-fried squid to a serving plate. It looks as good as it tastes!
Step 8
Enjoy this flavorful Ojingeo Bokkeum as a complete meal with a bowl of steamed rice. It’s truly satisfying!
Step 9
Consider preparing a special meal by pairing this Ojingeo Bokkeum with other complementary dishes, like squid meatballs (Jingeo Donggeurang Ttaeng), for a truly impressive spread!
