Ika Sōmen with Sesame Soy Sauce

Ingredients

• 250g (8.8 oz) squid 250g (8.8 oz) squid
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mirin 1 tablespoon mirin
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the squid for 1-2 minutes until it turns opaque. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. 2.
   Slice the squid into thin strips resembling noodles.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mirin to make the sesame soy sauce.
4. 4.
   Place the squid noodles in a serving dish and pour the sesame soy sauce over them.
5. 5.
   Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
6. 6.
   Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Squid — Make sure to blanch the squid briefly to achieve a tender texture. Overcooking can result in rubbery squid.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can sprinkle some julienned cucumber or radish on top of the dish.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sesame soy sauce.
• You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Ika sōmen chilled as an appetizer or a light lunch. It pairs well with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the squid noodles neatly on a plate and drizzle the sesame soy sauce over them. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.