Ojabokeu (오징어볶음), or spicy stir-fried squid, is a vibrant and flavorful Korean dish that packs a fiery punch. This beloved street food and home-cooked favorite is characterized by its tender, slightly chewy squid, coated in a rich, intensely savory sauce bursting with gochujang (Korean chili paste), gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and a symphony of aromatic ingredients. The addictive combination of sweet, spicy, and savory makes Ojabokeu a truly unforgettable culinary experience, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a satisfying solo meal. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, offering big flavor with minimal effort.
Beyond its irresistible taste, Ojabokeu's beauty lies in its simplicity. With readily available ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, even novice cooks can master this dish. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create your own batch of this spicy Korean delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Tricolor bell peppers
- Carrots
- Green onions
- Onions
- Jalapeno
- Korean green peppers
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Korean red pepper paste (Gochujang): 3 tablespoons
- Minced garlic: 5 cloves
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Ginger: a couple of slivers
- Sesame seeds
- Flour
- Squid
- Squid legs
- Potato starch: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Seasoning
- Chop up the vegetables (tricolor bell peppers, carrots, green onions, onions, and jalapeno). You can substitute Korean green peppers.
- Combine soy sauce, Korean red pepper paste, minced garlic, sugar, and ginger.
- Cut the squid into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Stir-fry Vegetables and Sauce
- Fry the vegetables in a pan until softened.
- Add the soy sauce, garlic, sugar, ginger, and Korean red pepper paste to the pan with the vegetables and stir-fry.
Step 3. Cook the Squid and Thicken the Sauce
- Add the squid to the pan and continue stir-frying until cooked through. The vegetables will release liquid as they cook.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of potato starch with a little water to create a slurry. Add it to the pan to thicken the sauce.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with sesame seeds.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- Use a mix of squid bodies and legs for better texture.
- Adjust the amount of Korean red pepper paste to your preferred level of spiciness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen squid for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
2. What can I substitute for gochujang if I don't have any?
You can try a combination of red pepper paste and a touch of brown sugar for a similar flavor profile, but the authentic taste of gochujang is hard to replicate.
3. How do I adjust the spiciness level?
Control the amount of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) you add. Start with less and gradually increase to your desired level of heat.
This Spicy Korean Stir-fried Squid recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients creating explosive flavor. Enjoy this quick and easy dish as a satisfying meal or a delicious side to complement other Korean dishes. Now go forth and conquer your cravings for spicy, savory goodness!