When I first tasted grilled squid at a bustling night market in Japan, I was instantly captivated by the blend of smoky and savory flavors that danced on my palate. I never dreamed I could replicate that experience at home—until I stumbled upon a simple recipe that promised to bring that street food magic into my kitchen in just 20 minutes.
This Japanese Grilled Squid with Soy Butter Sauce isn’t just a quick meal; it’s an experience that transforms any weeknight dinner into a delightful culinary adventure. The tender squid, kissed by the grill, pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy sauce that has just the right amount of umami. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply eager to break free from the mundane fast food routine, this dish is bound to impress. Grab your ingredients and let’s embark on a flavor journey that celebrates authentic Japanese cuisine without the fuss!
Why is Japanese Grilled Squid irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This dish requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of the smoky grill and rich soy butter sauce creates an irresistible umami experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Fun to Make: Grilling squid is not only about the flavor—it’s also a fun culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends.
Perfectly Tender: When grilled correctly, the squid turns out tender and juicy, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
Versatile: Pair it with a crisp salad or steamed rice for a complete meal or enjoy it as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering.
Get ready to experience a taste of Japan right in your kitchen with this delicious grilled seafood masterpiece!
Japanese Grilled Squid Ingredients
Get ready to gather the essentials for this delightful dish!
For the Sauce
- Butter – Adds richness and serves as the base for the sauce. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Grated Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth. Fresh minced garlic yields the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness, essential for the flavor profile. Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and enriches the sauce. Honey or maple syrup can serve as a natural sweetener.
- Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and freshness to the sauce, brightening the flavors. Lime juice could be used for a different citrus note.
For the Squid
- Large Squid – The main ingredient; prepare it carefully for optimal grilling. Calamari can be used as an alternative if squid is unavailable.
- Oil – For greasing the pan to achieve a nice sear. Any high smoke point oil, like canola, can be used.
Now, with your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to a mouthwatering experience with this Japanese Grilled Squid!
How to Make Japanese Grilled Squid
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then mix in the soy sauce, sugar, and lemon juice until creamy and well combined.
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Clean the Squid: Carefully remove the tentacles and innards from the squid, extracting the beak located just below the eyes. Rinse the body until it is smooth and hollow.
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Score the Squid: Using a sharp knife, make diagonal criss-cross patterns on both sides of the squid. This will help prevent curling on the grill.
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Dry the Squid: Pat the squid and tentacles dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice sear and prevents steaming during grilling.
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Grill: Heat a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then place the squid head side down in the pan. Use a press for even contact and grill for about 2-3 minutes until charred and slightly crispy.
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Finish and Serve: Repeat the grilling process for the tentacles, cooking for slightly less time. Once done, plate the squid and generously pour the soy butter sauce over it for a luscious finish.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Japanese Grilled Squid
Fridge: Store any leftover grilled squid in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the squid, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat to bring back the tenderness of the Japanese Grilled Squid without overcooking.
Best Served Fresh: For the optimal taste and texture, enjoy your grilled squid right after cooking—it’s a flavorful experience that shouldn’t be missed!
Make Ahead Options
These Japanese Grilled Squid with Soy Butter Sauce are excellent for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time on busy weeknights. You can clean and score the squid up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that it stays fresh when refrigerated in an airtight container. Additionally, the soy butter sauce can be prepared ahead, stored in the fridge for up to 3 days to allow the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply heat the sauce before grilling the squid as instructed. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality grilled squid waiting for you with minimal effort—deliciousness achieved without the rush!
What to Serve with Japanese Grilled Squid with Soy Butter Sauce?
Elevate your meal with sides that harmonize beautifully, creating a delightful dining experience.
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Steamed Rice: Perfectly cooked rice absorbs the rich soy butter sauce, offering a mellow complement to the squid’s flavors. Its comforting texture balances with the tender seafood.
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Crisp Vegetable Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the grilled squid. Toss in a sesame dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
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Miso Soup: This warm, umami-packed soup acts as a cozy accompaniment, enhancing the meal with its savory depth. It’s an excellent way to enter the culinary world of Japan.
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Grilled Veggies: Smoky, charred vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers mirror the grilling of the squid while adding a pop of color and flavor to your plate.
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Sake or White Wine: A chilled glass of sake or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the delightful taste of the squid and balance its richness, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Sesame Noodles: These noodles tossed in a sesame sauce provide a delightful texture and flavor, pairing beautifully with the soy butter sauce, making each bite an adventure.
Together, these pairing suggestions will transform your dinner into a feast, celebrating the joy of homemade Japanese cuisine!
Japanese Grilled Squid Variations
Feel the freedom to adapt this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs—your kitchen, your rules!
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Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the soy butter for a fiery kick that excites the palate.
Feel the warmth spread with each bite, perfect for those who love a little heat! -
Herb-Infused: Chop fresh cilantro or basil and stir into the soy butter sauce for a refreshing herbal note.
This brightens up the dish and adds an aromatic layer that will delight your senses. -
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lime into the butter sauce for a vibrant, zesty flavor.
This twist introduces a delightful brightness that complements the grilled squid beautifully. -
Grilled Veggies: Serve with a side of grilled asparagus or bell peppers to add color, texture, and flavor.
They’ll bring a touch of charred goodness to your plate, enhancing this seafood delight. -
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
This small touch adds a layer of texture that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. -
Coconut Sugar: Swap regular sugar for coconut sugar in the sauce for a deeper caramel flavor with a hint of sweetness.
This substitution lends an earthy richness that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the squid. -
Miso Paste: Mix in a tablespoon of miso paste with the butter sauce for an extra umami punch.
The combination of nutty miso and rich soy creates a wonderful depth of flavor that elevates the dish. -
Alternative Seafood: Replace squid with shrimp or scallops for a different seafood experience that’s just as delicious.
Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture, ensuring your meal is always exciting!
Expert Tips for Japanese Grilled Squid
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Fully Defrosted: Make sure your squid is completely defrosted before cooking to avoid icy hands and uneven cooking.
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Scoring Technique: Score the squid properly to prevent curling, allowing for an even grill and better texture in your Japanese Grilled Squid.
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No Overcooking: Watch closely while grilling; squid cooks quickly and can become tough if overcooked, ruining its tender texture.
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Pat Dry: Always dry the squid and tentacles thoroughly before grilling to achieve a beautiful sear rather than steaming.
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Use a Press: For even cooking, use a smash burger press or a heavy lid to keep the squid in contact with the grill surface.
Japanese Grilled Squid with Soy Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect squid?
Absolutely! The best squid for grilling is fresh, with a firm texture and shiny skin. Look for squid that is milky white with a hint of transparency. Avoid any that feel slimy or have dark spots all over, indicating they may be past their prime. If you’re purchasing frozen squid, ensure it is well-packaged without signs of frostbite.
How should I store leftover grilled squid?
For sure! Store any remaining grilled squid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to consume it fresh to enjoy its tender texture. To preserve the taste and quality, refrain from reheating more than once, and use a gentle method to avoid toughness.
Can I freeze Japanese grilled squid?
Yes! To freeze your grilled squid, arrange it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer the squid to a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet.
What should I do if my squid turns out tough?
Very good question! Tough squid often results from overcooking. If you find your dish isn’t as tender as you hoped, ensure you grill it only until it becomes opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness. To rescue overcooked squid, slice it thinly and marinate it briefly in a flavorful sauce. This tenderizes the meat while adding extra flavor.
Is this dish safe for those with seafood allergies?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have seafood allergies, it’s crucial to avoid this recipe as it contains squid, which can trigger allergic reactions. For a similar flavor profile without seafood, consider using grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant, which can absorb the delicious soy butter sauce beautifully.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Very easily! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce in the recipe. Additionally, check that your other ingredients, such as the sugar and butter, are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delightful Japanese grilled squid without worry!
Irresistible Japanese Grilled Squid with Soy Butter Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then mix in the soy sauce, sugar, and lemon juice until creamy and well combined.
- Clean the Squid: Carefully remove the tentacles and innards from the squid, extracting the beak located just below the eyes. Rinse the body until it is smooth and hollow.
- Score the Squid: Using a sharp knife, make diagonal criss-cross patterns on both sides of the squid. This will help prevent curling on the grill.
- Dry the Squid: Pat the squid and tentacles dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice sear and prevents steaming during grilling.
- Grill: Heat a cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then place the squid head side down in the pan. Use a press for even contact and grill for about 2-3 minutes until charred and slightly crispy.
- Finish and Serve: Repeat the grilling process for the tentacles, cooking for slightly less time. Once done, plate the squid and generously pour the soy butter sauce over it for a luscious finish.
