Ika Sugataage (イカ姿揚げ) – Whole Fried Squid Snack

Overview:
Ika Sugataage is a popular Japanese seafood snack that consists of whole squid that has been seasoned and deep-fried until crispy. It is known for its savory, umami-rich flavor with a slightly chewy texture on the inside and a crispy coating on the outside. The name "Sugataage" (姿揚げ) translates to "whole fried," referring to the preparation method where the squid is fried intact or in large pieces.

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Taste & Texture:

• Crispy Exterior: The batter or seasoning creates a crunchy bite.
• Chewy & Tender Inside: The squid retains a slight chewiness, characteristic of dried or fried squid.
• Umami-Rich: Deep seafood flavors with a balance of saltiness and sometimes sweetness.
• Varieties: Some versions have added flavors like wasabi, mayonnaise, soy sauce, or spicy chili seasoning.

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How It’s Made:

Preparation

• Squid is cleaned and cut into a desirable shape.
• It may be lightly dried or marinated for extra flavor.

Seasoning

• Common seasonings include salt, soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), or dashi (Japanese broth).
• Some varieties use a tempura-style batter for extra crunch.

Deep-Frying

• The squid is fried in hot oil (180°C/350°F) until golden brown.
• Drained on paper towels to remove excess oil.