Dried Squid – A Meaningful Specialty Gift When Traveling to Quang Binh

Hidden behind golden, fragrant pieces of dried squid is a meticulous and elaborate preparation process by the coastal people of Quang Binh. From selecting the freshest squid to sun-drying them under the sun, everything is done with dedication and skill. Quang Binh dried squid is not just a dish, but also a cultural trait and a source of pride for the locals here.

Quang Binh dried squid is prepared from fresh squid caught in the waters of Nhat Le and Quang Phu – areas with clean ocean currents, rich alluvium, and abundant natural food sources. As a result, the squid here has a thicker body, sweeter, and firmer meat compared to many other sea areas. Unlike dried squid in some places that may be machine-dried, Quang Binh dried squid is dried under natural sunshine on net frames to ensure just the right dryness, without being too hard or losing its original flavor. This process helps the squid retain its characteristic light pink color, natural aroma, and perfect chewy deliciousness.

Quang Binh dried squid is famous not only for its superior quality but also for its variety of types, making it easy for tourists to choose according to their preferences. 

• Line-caught dried squid: Caught using traditional hand-line fishing methods, this type of squid has a thick body, deeply sweet flesh, and natural tender chewiness. When grilled, line-caught dried squid has a rich aroma, clear meat fibers, and does not get mushy. This is the highest value type of squid and is sought after by many.
   
• Trawl-caught dried squid: Caught using trawl nets, available in larger quantities but slightly lower in quality compared to line-caught dried squid. The squid body is thinner, the meat is softer, and it is usually cheaper, suitable for those who want to buy in bulk.

To ensure you buy delicious, authentic Quang Binh dried squid, you should pay attention to several factors below. 

Observe the squid's color

Delicious dried squid has a natural light pink color, with a light white powdery layer covering the body. If the squid has a color that is too dark, black, or wet and sticky, it may be of poor quality or improperly preserved. 

Check the thickness and size of the squid

Choose squid with a thick body, firm flesh, intact head and body without breaks or cracks. Avoid choosing squid that is too thin, as it is usually trawl-caught squid, which has softer and less tasty flesh than line-caught squid. 

Smell the aroma

High-quality dried squid has a natural ocean aroma without a fishy smell or strange odor. If there is a sharp or pungent smell, the squid may have been chemically treated or stored for a long time.

Check the tentacles

The tentacles of dried squid must be intact, firm, and have a white-pink color. If the tentacles are soft, mushy, or easily detach, the squid may have been kept for a long time or is of poor quality.

Choose a reputable store location

You should buy at reputable specialty shops, seafood markets, or long-standing dried squid processing facilities in Quang Binh. Avoid buying squid of unknown origin sold floating at overly cheap prices, as it may have been treated with chemicals or stored improperly. 

By applying these simple tips, you will easily select fresh, high-quality Quang Binh dried squid, ensuring standard authentic flavors for delicious dishes.

Quang Binh dried squid is certainly a favorite delight, suitable as a gift for friends and family thanks to its simple preparation method and many delicious, appealing dishes. Below are some typical preparation methods and ways to enjoy Quang Binh dried squid. 

Grilled dried squid

This is the simplest preparation method that retains the natural flavor of the dried squid.

Instructions:

• Grill the squid over charcoal or an electric grill.
• Turn both sides evenly until the squid turns golden brown.
• When cooked, tear into small strips by hand or cut into bite-sized pieces with scissors.
• Dip with chili sauce or serve with fresh herbs.

Tamarind-glazed dried squid

This dish has a rich sweet and sour flavor, perfect for snacking.

Instructions:

• Grill the dried squid and tear it into small strips.
• Make a sweet and sour tamarind sauce.
• Add the squid to simmer with the tamarind sauce until the seasonings are thoroughly absorbed.
• This dish can be eaten with rice or enjoyed as a snack with drinks.

Fried dried squid with fish sauce 

Instructions: 

• Soak the squid in warm water for about 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Deep-fry until crispy in hot oil, then remove and drain.
• Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, add fish sauce, sugar, and chili, simmer until thickened, then add the squid and toss evenly.

Green mango salad with dried squid 

Instructions:

• Grill the squid and tear it into small shreds.
• Shred green mango, mix with the squid, Vietnamese coriander, and roasted peanuts.
• Mix sweet and sour fish sauce, pour over, and toss well.

Stir-fried dried squid with garlic butter 

Instructions:

• Soak the squid until softened, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add the squid and stir-fry evenly.
• Season with a little sugar and fish sauce to balance the taste.

Whether simply grilled, richly glazed with tamarind, crispy fried with fish sauce, made into sweet and sour salad, or stir-fried with fragrant garlic butter, Quang Binh dried squid is always ready to transform into irresistible dishes. This is definitely a meaningful and attractive gift to give to your loved ones, or simply to treat yourself to a proper feast of flavors.

Quang Binh dried squid is not only a famous specialty of the Central coastal region, but also a meaningful gift for friends and relatives after every trip. To select true authentic specialties, you should choose reputable addresses. 

Coastal markets such as: Dong Hoi Market, Nhan Trach Market, Ly Hoa Market (Bo Trach), Quan Hau Market (Quang Ninh), Canh Duong Market (Quang Trach)

Specialty shops:

• 24h Central Specialty Supermarket: Highway 1A, Ly Trach, Bo Trach, Quang Binh.
• Central Specialty Supermarket – Xu Quang: 185 Truong Phap, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh.
• Rose City - Quang Binh Specialty & Souvenir Supermarket: 103 Truong Phap, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh.
• Sy Hang Fishing Village: 52 Dong Hai, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh.
• Dai Duong 2 Seafood: 103 Ly Thuong Kiet, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh. 

Quang Binh dried squid, imbued with the rich flavor of the Central sea, is undoubtedly a meaningful gift for relatives and friends after every trip. With superior quality, easy preservation, versatile cooking options, and enticing flavor, the dried squid here always satisfies even the most demanding diners. 

If you have the chance to visit Quang Binh, don't forget to buy original dried squid to enjoy and give as gifts. A small gift containing the culinary essence and soul of the Central sea region will surely delight and be appreciated by the recipient. Quang Binh continuously conquers diners with its diversity and charm in cuisine and travel; if you want to explore more about this place, don't forget to follow Sovaba Travel.