Overview: Ika Sugataage is a popular Japanese seafood snack that consists of whole squid that has been seasoned and deep-fried until crispy. It is known for its savory, umami-rich flavor with a slightly chewy texture on the inside and a crispy coating on the outside. The name "Sugataage" (姿揚げ) translates to "whole fried," referring to the preparation method where the squid is fried intact or in large pieces.
Taste & Texture:
Crispy Exterior: The batter or seasoning creates a crunchy bite.
Chewy & Tender Inside: The squid retains a slight chewiness, characteristic of dried or fried squid.
Umami-Rich: Deep seafood flavors with a balance of saltiness and sometimes sweetness.
Varieties: Some versions have added flavors like wasabi, mayonnaise, soy sauce, or spicy chili seasoning.
How It’s Made:
Preparation
Squid is cleaned and cut into a desirable shape.
It may be lightly dried or marinated for extra flavor.
Seasoning
Common seasonings include salt, soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), or dashi (Japanese broth).
Some varieties use a tempura-style batter for extra crunch.
Deep-Frying
The squid is fried in hot oil (180°C/350°F) until golden brown.