Ojingeo bokkeum (spicy stir-fried squid)

Method7 steps · about 30 min

1. 1

   Step 1: Combine the sauce ingredients:2 Tbsp gochujang, 1 Tbsp gochugaru (plus optional extra 1–2 tsp for more heat), 1 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp sugar, 1/2 Tbsp corn syrup OR an extra 1 tsp sugar, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 tsp ginger, 1 tsp sesame seeds and pinch black pepper. Keep vegetable oil for frying and sesame oil for finishing separate.

   Uses 2 tbsp gochujang · 1 tbsp gochugaru, plus optional extra 1–2 tsp · 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce · 1 tablespoon sugar · 1/2 tablespoon corn syrup (or 1 more teaspoon sugar) · 1 tablespoon minced garlic · 1 teaspoon minced ginger · 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

   
2. 2

   Step 2: Pull the squid (1 medium) head/innards from the body, remove the innards and pull out the clear internal quill, cut tentacles from the head below the eyes, and remove the beak and skin. Cut the body into about 3/4-inch rings OR slit it open and cut 3/4-inch-wide, 2-inch-long pieces; cut tentacles to similar lengths. If scoring, lightly score the inside of the flattened body in roughly 1/4-inch diamonds before cutting. Keep pieces large enough because they shrink.

   Uses 1 medium squid, about 14 oz

   
3. 3

   Step 3: Mix the squid with the seasoning mix and marinate while preparing vegetables.

   Uses Cleaned cut squid · Prepared spicy sauce

   
4. 4

   Step 4: Slice the onion (1/2 medium). Cut the zucchini (1/2 medium) and carrot (1/2 medium) into half lengthwise and thinly slice into 2-inch long pieces. Cut the scallions (2) 2-inches long.

   Uses 1/2 medium carrot · 1/2 medium onion · 1/2 medium zucchini · 2 scallions

   
5. 5

   Step 5: Heat a large skillet over high heat and add the vegetable oil (1 tablespoon). Add the carrots, followed by the onions, zucchini, and then the scallions. Stir fry the vegetables quickly only until they start to wilt, about 2 minutes.

   Uses Prepared vegetables · 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

   
6. 6

   Step 6: Push the vegetables to the sides of the skillet. Add the marinated squid and any remaining sauce to the center of the skillet. Stir fry just until the squid pieces curl up and turn opaque (about 2 minutes).

   Uses Partly cooked vegetables · Marinated squid and its sauce

   
7. 7

   Step 7: Stir to mix the vegetables and the squid well for a minute. Drizzle the sesame oil (1 tablespoon) over. (Do NOT overcook the squid. The squid will get tough.) Serve warm with a bowl of rice or on top of rice.

   Uses Stir-fried squid and vegetables · 1 tablespoon sesame oil · Cooked rice to serve, as desired