Ika yaki (Grilled squid) x Furikake
Ika yaki with furikake is a delicious Japanese dish made with grilled or pan-fried squid (ika) and seasoned with furikake. Furikake is a Japanese seasoning typically made from a mixture of dried fish, sesame seeds, seaweed, sugar, and salt. It is commonly used to enhance the flavor of rice, but it can also be used to season other dishes like seafood.
To make Ika yaki with furikake, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh squid (ika)
- Furikake seasoning
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cooking oil
Here's a basic recipe to prepare Ika yaki with furikake:
- Clean the squid: Start by cleaning the squid thoroughly. Remove the innards, beak, and transparent cartilage from the body. Rinse the squid under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Score the squid: Use a sharp knife to make diagonal cuts on the squid's body, creating a crisscross pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the squid: Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the squid. You can also add additional seasonings according to your preference.
- Heat the pan: Heat a frying pan or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil to the pan and spread it evenly.
- Cook the squid: Place the seasoned squid on the heated pan and cook for a few minutes on each side until it turns opaque and develops a slightly charred or grilled appearance. Be careful not to overcook the squid, as it can become tough and rubbery.
- Sprinkle with furikake: Once the squid is cooked, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle furikake seasoning generously over the squid, coating it evenly.
- Serve and enjoy: Ika yaki with furikake is best enjoyed immediately while it's still hot. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger meal with steamed rice and side dishes.
Remember, you can adjust the seasoning and cooking time to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and variations to create your own unique version of Ika yaki with furikake. Enjoy your meal!