Join me as I prepare my Japanese Grilled Squid recipe, the ultimate way to savor the delightful flavors of fresh seafood! Grilled to perfection, this dish showcases tender squid with a zesty lemon twist, served alongside a savory umami miso dipping sauce. It’s a straightforward and delightful treat, making it a must-try dish for seafood lovers!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
My Japanese Grilled Squid recipe offers a quick and delightful way to savor the goodness of fresh squid, rich in lean protein, vitamins, and minerals! Prepare to be amazed as whole fresh squid takes center stage, perfectly grilled and served with my hand crafted Japanese-style spicy miso mayo sauce! The outcome? A delightful combination of chewy yet tender squid texture, complemented by the smoky and umami-filled savory Miso Mayo Sauce that adds a delightful kick! Or you could pair it with my Spicy Miso Sauce just like in my Japanese Style Shrimp for a fiery kick!
Whether you’re seeking a main course for lunch or dinner, this recipe is your fail-proof solution to grill fresh squid in your own kitchen, using straightforward, made-from-scratch ingredients. And here’s a little secret just for you! My sauce is a tried-and-true family recipe made right in my kitchen, featured in dishes like Grilled Lobster Tails and Protein Smash Burger! So don’t miss out on fresh seafood – it’s time to try this incredible recipe now!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Squid – best to use whole fresh or frozen fresh premium squid with tentacles. Can be purchased in the seafood department at grocery stores.
- Mayonnaise – use Japanese Kewpie Mayo. Can substitute with regular mayo but will alter flavor.
- Miso – awase brown Miso works best.
- Sriracha – Asian style chill sauce.
- Lemon Juice – fresh squeezed from lemon wedge.
🦑 Squid Note
Use either Fresh Squid or Top-Quality Frozen Squid when preparing this dish.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- BBQ Grill
Directions
Step 1 Start by blending mayo, miso, and Sriracha.
Step 2 Clean the squid by removing the cuttlebone, ink cartilage, and beak, rinse it under cold water and gently pat it dry with a paper towel.
💡 Cleaning Pro Tip
When cleaning squid for this recipe, you can usually use your Hands Only; no knife is needed. If the cuttlebone is stuck on the squid, use kitchen shears to loosen it up.
Step 3 Grill the squid at 350°F. Grill each side for 1.5-2 minutes, or until the meat loses its transparency and takes on a slightly opaque appearance.
🔥 Grilling Squid Pro Tip
The secret to perfectly grilled squid lies in Avoiding Overcooking. Once the meat becomes opaque with a hint of white and is no longer transparent, it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Step 4 Slice the grilled calamari into rings, and serve it with a side of miso mayo dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon.
Recipe Variation
Looking for a simple variation? Try my Japanese Boiled Squid using my tried-and-true boiling technique! If you’re in the mood for deep frying, my Japanese Fried Calamari is a must-try. Both dishes stay true to preparation techniques inspired by authentic Japanese cuisine.
Pairing Recommendations
To create a complete meal, serve it with Clam Miso Soup for a rich and savory contrast. A green salad dressed with Ginger Salad Dressing adds a refreshing touch, while a side vegetable stir-fry like Stir Fry Bean Sprouts or Japanese Style Avocado provides vibrant colors and textures to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of grill works best for this recipe?
You can use gas, electric, or charcoal grill for this recipe.
What type of dipping sauce can I use if I don't like spicy flavors?
If you prefer a milder sauce, you can prepare a non-spicy miso mayo by omitting the sriracha sauce.
Is there a recommended time of year to find the freshest squid?
Squid is often in season during the cooler months, but it's available year-round in many places. The freshest squid can usually be found at local markets, making it accessible throughout the year for your grilling enjoyment.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be safely stored for 3-5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Japanese Steamed Clams
- Pan Seared Japanese Style Scallops
- Dynamite Seafood Shrimp
- Japanese Baked Salmon Belly
Watch How To Make It
Japanese Grilled Squid
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Squid
- 2 tbsp Kewpie Mayo
- 1/2 tsp Miso
- 1/4 tsp Sriracha
- 1 Wedge Lemon optional
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine Kewpie mayo, miso, and sriracha. Mix well, transfer to serving sauce bowl and set aside.
- Cut optional lemon wedge and set aside.
- Prepare squid by cleaning cuttlebone, ink cartilage, and beak. Pat dry with paper towel and set aside.
- Preheat BBQ grill to 350F. Transfer squid to BBQ, cover and cook for 1.5-2 minutes or until meat becomes slightly opaque. Rotate squid, cover and cook the other side for 1.5-2 minutes.
- Cut cooked squid into 1/4 inch slice and serve with spicy miso mayo and optional lemon wedge.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving
