乌贼 Sotong (Malaysia)

Sotong is the Malay term for squid, a highly versatile and popular seafood in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia. In Malaysia, sotong is enjoyed in various dishes, known for its tender texture, mild flavor, and ability to absorb the flavors of the ingredients it is cooked with. It can be prepared in a wide range of ways, from simple grilled preparations to complex stews and stir-fries.

Popular Ways to Prepare Sotong in Malaysia:

1. Ikan Bakar (Grilled Sotong)
   One of the most popular ways to prepare sotong in Malaysia is by grilling it. The squid is marinated with a mix of spices, such as turmeric, chili, garlic, and soy sauce, then grilled over an open flame. This method imparts a smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
2. Sotong Sambal
   Sambal sotong is a beloved dish in Malaysia, where sotong is stir-fried in a spicy sambal (chili paste) made from a blend of fresh chilies, garlic, onions, and sometimes shrimp paste. The sambal gives the squid a rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy coating that complements the natural sweetness of the squid.
3. Sotong Goreng Tepung (Fried Squid)
   Sotong goreng tepung refers to deep-fried squid, often coated in a light flour or batter. It is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and typically served as a snack or appetizer. It is commonly accompanied by a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or garlic mayonnaise.
4. Sotong Masak Hitam (Squid in Ink)
   In this dish, sotong is cooked in its own ink, giving the dish a rich and savory flavor with a deep black color. Sotong masak hitam is typically cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, and served with rice. The ink creates a thick, flavorful sauce that complements the squid’s natural sweetness.
5. Sotong Kuah Kuning (Squid in Yellow Curry)
   This dish features sotong cooked in a flavorful yellow curry, made with turmeric, chili, garlic, and coconut milk. The squid absorbs the fragrant curry sauce, making it a comforting and aromatic dish.
6. Sotong in Soup
   Sotong sup (squid soup) is a light, broth-based dish that features sotong simmered with herbs like lemongrass and ginger. The result is a fragrant, slightly spicy soup that is refreshing and delicious.
7. Sotong Salad
   Sotong is also used in salads, particularly in dishes like Kerabu Sotong—a spicy and tangy Malaysian salad made with squid, vegetables, herbs, and a dressing of lime, chili, and fish sauce. It’s a light and flavorful dish, often served as a side or appetizer.
8. Sotong Tempura
   A Japanese-inspired dish that has become popular in Malaysia, sotong tempura is made by dipping squid rings or pieces in a light tempura batter and deep-frying them until crispy. They are typically served with a soy-based dipping sauce.
9. Stuffed Sotong
   Sotong isi (stuffed squid) is a dish where the squid is stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, seafood, rice, or vegetables, then cooked in a rich sauce. This preparation is often seen in more elaborate meals and is a great way to enjoy sotong in a more substantial form.

Nutritional Benefits:

Sotong is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, selenium, and iron. However, it should be eaten in moderation, especially when prepared in deep-fried or heavily seasoned dishes.

Sotong is an essential ingredient in Malaysian cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Its versatility and ability to absorb the flavors of the dishes it is cooked with make it a staple in many Malaysian households and restaurants. Whether served grilled, fried, or in a savory curry, sotong remains a beloved seafood enjoyed throughout the country.