There’s something special about seafood cooked over an open flame — the smoky aroma, the light char, and the way the natural flavors come alive. Among all the treasures of the sea, grilled squid holds a unique place. Known for its tender texture and mild, savory flavor, this dish perfectly captures the essence of coastal dining. At Shalimar Phuket, our grilled squid is one of the restaurant’s most-loved specialties, crafted with traditional Thai flair and served fresh from the grill.
The Allure of Grilled Squid
Grilled squid is a dish that reflects simplicity at its finest. It’s a culinary masterpiece born from minimal ingredients — fresh squid, a touch of seasoning, and fire. Yet, when done right, it’s incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
In Thailand, especially in seaside regions like Phuket, grilled squid is a staple at markets, beach stalls, and restaurants. Locals enjoy it with spicy dipping sauces and lime wedges, often as a quick snack or a light seafood meal. At Shalimar, we bring that same authentic Thai charm to your table, offering a version that balances smoky richness with zesty brightness.
Shalimar Phuket’s Grilled Squid — Fresh, Tender, and Flavorful
At Shalimar, we believe that the secret to great grilled squid starts with freshness. Our chefs source high-quality squid from local markets daily. Each squid is cleaned, tenderized, and marinated in a blend of herbs and spices before being perfectly grilled.
The marinade usually includes a mix of garlic, lime juice, a hint of chili, and fish sauce — simple ingredients that enhance, rather than overpower, the natural sweetness of the squid. Once grilled, the squid develops a light char and smoky aroma that pairs beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce made from chili, garlic, and lime.
Served hot off the grill, our grilled squid embodies the coastal flavors of Thailand, offering an experience that’s fresh, wholesome, and unforgettable.
How to Make Grilled Squid at Home
If you want to recreate the Shalimar Phuket experience at home, here’s a simple grilled squid recipe that’s easy to follow and yields incredible results.
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh squid (cleaned and cut into rings or scored tubes)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (halal-certified)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or crushed red chili
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce or chopped fresh chili
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Squid
Clean the squid thoroughly, removing the inner membrane and tentacles. Cut the body into rings or lightly score it in a crisscross pattern. This helps it absorb the marinade and cook evenly.
Step 2: Marinate
Mix garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, chili flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the squid and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for about 20–30 minutes.
Step 3: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking. Grill the squid for about 2–3 minutes per side — be careful not to overcook it, as squid can become rubbery if left on the grill too long.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the grilled squid immediately with the dipping sauce and a wedge of lime. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh Thai salad.
Why Grilled Squid Is a Phuket Favorite
There’s a reason grilled squid is so beloved across Thailand. It’s not just delicious — it’s also light, nutritious, and full of flavor. The dish highlights the country’s deep connection to the sea and its culinary philosophy of balance.
At Shalimar Phuket, our version stands out because of the way we treat the ingredients. Every squid is prepared with care, grilled at just the right temperature, and served fresh to preserve its tenderness. The result is a dish that feels both comforting and elegant — the perfect choice for seafood lovers visiting Phuket.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Squid
- Don’t overcook it: Squid only needs a few minutes per side. Overcooking makes it chewy.
- Marinate briefly: A short marination adds flavor without overpowering the delicate seafood taste.
- Score the surface: Lightly scoring helps the squid absorb flavors and prevents curling.
- Use fresh lime juice: It brightens the dish and cuts through the smoky richness.
- Serve hot: Squid tastes best straight off the grill.
Different Ways to Enjoy Grilled Squid
While traditional Thai-style grilled squid is a crowd favorite, you can also experiment with different flavors:
- Spicy Garlic Squid: Add extra chili and garlic for a fiery version.
- Lemongrass Squid: Infuse the marinade with fresh lemongrass for a fragrant twist.
- Honey Glazed Squid: Mix honey and soy sauce in the marinade for a sweet-savory flavor.
- Coconut Grilled Squid: Brush with coconut milk before grilling for a tropical finish.
At Shalimar Phuket, we occasionally offer seasonal variations inspired by local ingredients, ensuring there’s always something new to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best way to cook squid on the grill?
The best way is to grill it quickly over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side. This keeps it tender and prevents it from becoming rubbery.
Q2: How do you make grilled squid tender?
Avoid overcooking and use a quick marinade with lime juice or vinegar. The acidity helps tenderize the squid naturally.
Q3: What can I serve with grilled squid?
You can serve grilled squid with rice, noodles, or a light salad. It also pairs beautifully with Thai dipping sauces like chili-lime or tamarind.
Q4: Can I grill frozen squid?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before marinating and grilling for the best texture.
Q5: How long can grilled squid be stored?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.