How to make 15-minute stir-fried squid with vegetables

This recipe serves about 4 to 5 people, takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, and provides around 840 calories in total.

Ingredients

- 2 squids (approximately 500 grams)

- 1 handful of Chinese celery

- 1 handful of leeks

- 1 onion

- 1/2 carrot

- 4 cloves of garlic

- Scallion and chili (optional)

- Spices: fish sauce, salt, stock powder, pepper

- Ginger and vinegar

Instructions

1. Preparation

- Clean the squid, remove the membrane, and wash it with vinegar and salt until clean.

- Slice the squid into preferred shapes, such as rings or bite-sized pieces.

- Boil a pot of water with a little vinegar, crushed ginger, and green onions.

- Blanch the squid quickly, and transfer it to a bowl of ice water. Drain well. This process ensures the squid becomes white, non-fishy and crispy.

- Avoid marinating the squid as it is naturally salty and might become watery when stir-fried.

To elevate the squid's visual appeal, consider making various cutting patterns across its body. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Thuy

- Wash the Chinese celery and leeks, cutting them into lengths of approximately 4-5 centimeters.

Fresh leeks and Chinese celery should retain their vibrant green color. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Thuy

- Peel and wedge the onion.

- Slice the chili, and thinly slice the carrots.

- Wash and cut the scallions.

Carrots can be cut into various shapes, such as flowers, for a fun twist. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Thuy

2. Cooking process

- Begin by sautéing half of the garlic until golden, then swiftly stir-fry the squid over high heat with half a teaspoon of salt. Set aside.

- In the same pan, fry the remaining garlic, followed by carrots, onions, leeks, and celery.

- Add the stir-fried squid back to the pan and continue to stir-fry over high heat.

- Season with half a teaspoon of fish sauce, half a teaspoon of salt, half a teaspoon of stock powder, and some chili to taste.

- Plate the dish, sprinkle it with pepper, and serve immediately while hot.

Once cooked, the squid will firm up and gently curl. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Thuy

3. Final product

- The squid should retain its crunchiness, texture, and natural sweetness, while the vegetables should be tender and flavorful.

Adding a touch of pepper before serving can boost the aroma of the stir-fried squid. Photo by VnExpress/Bui Thuy