The rich, savory scent of ginger and sesame wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to make one of my all-time favorite dishes: Three Cup Squid Stir Fry. It’s a recipe that I stumbled upon during a spontaneous foray into my local Asian market, where the vibrant produce and fresh seafood sparked a culinary adventure. Just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes of cooking time, this meal has transformed my weeknight dinners into restaurant-quality experiences.
This dish not only delights the senses with its robust flavors and aroma but also revels in its simplicity—making it perfect for those who, like me, are seeking a fresh alternative to mundane fast food. The tender squid pairs beautifully with fragrant Thai basil, creating a dish that is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or simply treating yourself to something special, this Three Cup Squid Stir Fry is sure to impress. Let’s dive in and create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Three Cup Squid Stir Fry so special?
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of soy sauce, ginger, and basil creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and under 8 minutes of cooking, this dish fits perfectly into your busy weeknight routine.
Impress Your Guests: Serving up this stunning stir fry not only elevates your dining experience but also showcases your culinary skills—your friends and family will be thoroughly impressed!
Fresh Ingredients: The use of vibrant, fresh seafood and aromatic herbs ensures every bite bursts with authentic taste, making it a fantastic alternative to fast food.
Perfectly Tender Squid: With just the right cooking time, the squid remains tender and succulent, ensuring that every bite is enjoyable.
Give this quick, vibrant dish a try as a delightful way to shake up your meal rotation!
Three Cup Squid Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for a flavorful Three Cup Squid Stir Fry.
For the Squid
- Small squid – about 3 (6 inches / 15 cm each), cleaned and cut; fresh squid ensure the best texture and taste.
For the Aromatics
- Light sesame oil – 1 tablespoon; this oil adds a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
- Old ginger – 4 slices (about 1 inch, sliced thin); choose mature ginger for a deeper, robust flavor.
- Red chili – ½ small, sliced (optional); adds a pop of heat and color to the stir fry.
For the Sauce
- Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons; provides a savory, umami flavor base for the dish.
- Rice wine (michiu or Shaoxing wine) – 2 tablespoons; this ingredient elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Sugar – 1 tablespoon; balances the salty soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
For the Finish
- Thai basil leaves – a small handful (about ½ loosely packed cup); fresh basil enhances the dish with its aromatic quality.
- Black sesame oil – 1 tablespoon; drizzling this oil before serving adds a rich, toasty flavor.
This simple yet delectable list of ingredients will ensure your Three Cup Squid Stir Fry shines with vibrant flavors and delightful aromas!
How to Make Three Cup Squid Stir Fry
-
Rinse the squid thoroughly under cold water. Pull off the head and discard the clear quill inside. Slice the body into 2-inch rings. Blanch in boiling water for 20 seconds, then drain and set aside.
-
Blanch the cut squid by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the squid and blanch for exactly 20 seconds. Immediately drain using a slotted spoon or strainer and set aside.
-
Heat light sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced ginger and chili (if using). Stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until the ginger becomes fragrant.
-
Combine the blanched squid with the aromatics in the wok. Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Stir well for 2-3 minutes so the squid is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
-
Add the Thai basil leaves to the wok. Toss gently for about 15-20 seconds to combine and allow the basil to wilt slightly. If desired, drizzle the black sesame oil over the squid before serving.
Optional: Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Three Cup Squid Stir Fry?
Transform your dining experience with delightful pairings that elevate the flavor of this scrumptious dish.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy staple soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying and complete meal.
-
Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy: The crisp, bright greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich squid, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights add an enjoyable texture to your meal, making every bite a delightful experience of flavors and crunch.
-
Chili Garlic Edamame: The zesty kick complements the squid, offering a protein-packed appetizer that’s both vibrant and fun to eat.
-
Cucumber Salad: A light and tangy cucumber salad brings a coolness that offsets the warmth of the stir fry, adding freshness to each bite.
-
Cold Sake: Serving a chilled glass of sake aligns perfectly with the dish’s flavors, enhancing your dining experience with a touch of sophistication.
-
Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, this creamy and refreshing option is the perfect way to cleanse the palate after a savory meal.
Let these pairings inspire you to create a memorable dining experience that impresses your loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Three Cup Squid Stir Fry preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can clean and cut the squid up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the ginger and slice the chili (if using) ahead of time—just refrigerate them in a sealed container. When you’re ready to cook, simply blanch the squid, stir-fry it with the aromatics, and finish with the sauce and Thai basil. This way, you’ll have a delicious weeknight meal with minimal effort, all while keeping the vibrant flavors just as delightful!
Three Cup Squid Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to play around with this dish and make it your own with these delightful twists and swaps!
-
Spicy Kick: Add 1 whole sliced jalapeño for a fiery bite that pairs beautifully with the squid.
This level of heat will tantalize your taste buds while still allowing the other flavors to shine through. -
Vegetarian Option: Substitute squid with sliced tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
This swap brings in a unique texture while absorbing the savory sauce perfectly. -
Coconut Milk Creaminess: Stir in 1/4 cup of coconut milk for a rich and creamy sauce that’s simply luscious.
The addition of coconut brings an exotic twist, making each bite indulgently smooth. -
Add More Greens: Toss in a cup of baby spinach or snow peas for extra color and nutrition.
These vibrant greens will wilt nicely, adding a pop of freshness that elevates the dish. -
Herb Bouquet: Instead of Thai basil, try using a mix of cilantro and mint for a refreshing change.
This herb combo adds a bright, fragrant touch that will have everyone coming back for more! -
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or lime juice for a citrusy zest that brightens the flavors.
The tanginess of citrus cuts through the richness and enhances the overall taste. -
Nutty Crunch: Top with a sprinkle of toasted peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunchy texture.
This added crunch complements the tender squid beautifully, giving an extra layer of satisfaction. -
Savory Sesame Variants: Use toasted sesame seeds for an added nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Their subtle crunch will enhance every mouthful, making this dish even more irresistible!
Storage Tips for Three Cup Squid Stir Fry
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep it out for a short time, do so for no more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or wine to keep it moist.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, place the stir fry in a well-sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Always reheat thoroughly until steaming hot; adding a little extra soy sauce may enhance flavor after freezing. Remember, the tenderness of squid is best retained by careful reheating!
Expert Tips for Three Cup Squid Stir Fry
Choose Fresh Squid: Ensure you’re using fresh squid for the best texture. Avoid frozen squid as it can become rubbery when cooked.
Perfect Blanching: Don’t skimp on the blanching time—20 seconds is key! This quick step keeps the squid tender and helps preserve its natural sweetness.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re cautious about heat, start with less chili and add more gradually. You still get all the flavor from the ginger without overwhelming spiciness in your Three Cup Squid Stir Fry.
Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat gives the best results, allowing the squid to sear slightly and lock in moisture, leading to a delicious finish.
Add Herbs Last: Toss in the Thai basil at the very end of cooking. This way, it wilts perfectly without losing its vibrant color and flavor.
Three Cup Squid Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of squid should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh small squid that are about 6 inches (15 cm) each for the best texture and flavor. Look for squid with a clean, shiny appearance and no dark spots. If fresh is unavailable, frozen squid can be used but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking, as overcooked frozen squid can become rubbery.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Store any leftovers of your Three Cup Squid Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or rice wine to keep it from drying out.
Can I freeze Three Cup Squid Stir Fry? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your stir fry, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a well-sealed freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan until steaming hot. A dash of extra soy sauce when reheating can help boost the flavor!
What should I do if my squid is tough?
Very! If your squid turns out tough, it’s usually due to overcooking or not blanching properly. Make sure to cook the squid for exactly 20 seconds during the blanching step and avoid cooking it longer during stir-frying. Quick cooking at high heat helps maintain the squid’s tender texture.
Are there any dietary considerations with this dish?
While this recipe is seafood-based, it includes soy sauce which contains soy, a common allergen. If you’re cooking for someone with soy allergies, you can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for a similar flavor without soy. Always check your seafood source to ensure it fits any dietary requirements you may have.
Delicious Three Cup Squid Stir Fry You’ll Love in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the squid thoroughly under cold water. Pull off the head and discard the clear quill inside. Slice the body into 2-inch rings. Blanch in boiling water for 20 seconds, then drain and set aside.
- Blanch the cut squid by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the squid and blanch for exactly 20 seconds. Immediately drain using a slotted spoon or strainer and set aside.
- Heat light sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced ginger and chili (if using). Stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until the ginger becomes fragrant.
- Combine the blanched squid with the aromatics in the wok. Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Stir well for 2-3 minutes so the squid is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Add the Thai basil leaves to the wok. Toss gently for about 15-20 seconds to combine and allow the basil to wilt slightly. If desired, drizzle the black sesame oil over the squid before serving.
