Hello! Dried Squid Salad is a refreshing dish, rich in ocean flavors, perfect for enjoying during the sweltering summer days. Below are some interesting facts about this appealing dish:
Origin and Characteristics
Dried Squid Salad is a humble dish originating from Vietnam’s coastal regions. It is made from shredded dried squid, combined with herbs, green mango, carrots, roasted peanuts, and a sweet and sour fish sauce.
The special feature of this salad is the harmonious blend of the chewy sweetness of dried squid, the sour sweetness of green mango and fish sauce, the fragrance of herbs, and the nutty flavor of roasted peanuts. All these elements create an appetizing dish that stimulates the taste buds and embodies the essence of the ocean.
Popular Varieties of Dried Squid Salad
There are many variations of this salad, depending on the ingredients and personal preferences. Some popular types include:
- Green Mango Dried Squid Salad: This is the most common version, combining dried squid, green mango, carrots, and herbs.
- Cucumber Dried Squid Salad: This variation adds cucumber, providing a refreshing and crunchy texture.
- Pig Ear Dried Squid Salad: This version includes crispy pig ear, adding a unique appeal.
- Shrimp and Pork Dried Squid Salad: This dish adds shrimp and pork, offering a diverse flavor and nutritional profile.
Simple Recipe for Dried Squid Salad at Home
You can easily make this salad at home with simple and readily available ingredients. Below is a recipe for Green Mango Dried Squid Salad, one of the most beloved versions:
Ingredients:
- Dried Squid: 200g
- Green Mango: 1 fruit
- Carrot: 1 root
- Herbs: Vietnamese coriander, mint
- Roasted Peanuts
- Fish Sauce, Sugar, Lime Juice, Chili
Instructions:
Prepare Ingredients:
- Grill or lightly fry the dried squid until it’s soft, then shred it into strips.
- Shred the green mango and carrot.
- Wash and chop the herbs.
- Roast the peanuts until golden.
Make the Dressing:
- Mix fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and minced chili to create a sweet and sour dressing.
Assemble the Salad:
- Place the shredded squid, green mango, carrot, and herbs in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over and mix well.
Presentation:
- Arrange the salad on a plate, sprinkle roasted peanuts on top, and enjoy.
Tips:
- You can adjust the amount of ingredients and seasonings according to your taste.
- To make the dried squid softer, you can soak it in warm water before preparing.
- You can add other herbs like butter lettuce or perilla.
- If you prefer less spicy, you can reduce or omit the chili from the dressing.
Dried Squid Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish, rich in protein and fiber. It’s an excellent choice for a light meal or appetizer at parties. Wishing you success and delightful dried squid salads!