Squid chilli fry is a quick and simple Goan dish that's spicy, tangy, and full of flavor. The squid is pan-fried with onions, bell peppers, and green chillies, then tossed in sauces and spices. Cook it just right so the squid stays soft and juicy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
500gramssquids (7-8 medium-sized), cleaned and cut
Salt to taste
2medium onionssliced
1tomatosliced
3green chilliesadjust to taste
1capsicum / bell peppersliced
4garlic clovesfinely chopped
1teaspoonred chilli powder
½teaspoonturmeric powder
½teaspoonblack pepper powder
1teaspoonlight soy sauce
1tablespoontomato ketchup
½teaspoonlemon juice or vinegar
1tablespoonchopped coriander leaves or spring onion greens
5-6teaspoonoil
Instructions
Add salt to the cleaned squid and let it marinate for 15 minutes. While the squid marinates, slice and prep all vegetables.
Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a pan on medium heat. Add the squid and cook for 2-3 minutes. The squid will release some water. It is completely normal. Stir and cook for 2 more minutes until soft. Remove the squid along with its liquid and keep it aside.
In the same pan, heat 3-4 teaspoons oil. Add chopped garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly soft.
Add tomato, green chillies, and capsicum. Cook on high heat for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften and retain crunch.
Add red chilli powder, turmeric, black pepper, soy sauce, and tomato ketchup. Mix well to combine with the vegetables.
Add the reserved squid liquid to the pan and stir. Add the cooked squid and toss everything together. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Add lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves. Stir once and remove from heat. Serve hot.
Video
Notes
Don't overcook the squid: Squid cooks very fast. Cook it just long enough to stay soft and tender. Overcooking makes it rubbery. I always pinch one piece to taste to make sure it is perfectly cooked.
Marinate in salt for a few minutes: This helps tenderize the squid and brings out its natural flavor. A small sprinkle of salt works wonders. Do not skip this step.
Customize the flavors: There are so many ways to make this squid chilli fry. The sauces add tangy, savory notes, but you can also keep it simple with just spices if you prefer a lighter, more traditional taste.