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If you're tired of the same old crisps and are searching for a snack with a more complex, savoury character, you may have found your way to the world of Asian seafood snacks. A standout in this category is the dried squid snack, a popular choice in many parts of Asia, particularly Korea. Known for its deep umami flavour and satisfying texture, it can be the perfect partner for a cold drink, a convenient office treat or a talking point at your next gathering.
Navigating the options can be tricky, with textures ranging from soft and chewy to light and crispy and flavours from subtly sweet to boldly spicy. This guide is designed to help you understand the key differences and find a dried squid snack that perfectly matches your preferences.
Before you add to your basket, consider these points to ensure you pick the right pack for your palate.
The texture is arguably the most defining characteristic of a dried squid snack.
While all dried squid snacks share a savoury, marine base, the seasoning can vary dramatically.
A quick look at the packaging can tell you a lot. Pay attention to the squid content, which is often listed as a percentage. A higher percentage usually indicates a more intense, authentic squid flavour. It's also wise to check the allergen information, as many products contain wheat, egg or milk, and may be processed in facilities that handle other allergens.
Here are a few standout options that showcase the variety available.
Why It Stands Out: This snack strikes a brilliant balance between a crunchy coating and tender squid. The seasoned dried squid (39.6%) is coated in a thin layer of wheat and corn starch and fried to be crispy without feeling greasy. The seasoning is a well-judged mix of sweet and savoury, with a subtle kick from garlic and white pepper.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an excellent starting point for newcomers to dried squid snacks or for anyone who enjoys a crunchy, pub-style snack with a Korean twist.
Why It Stands Out: For the purists, this shredded dried squid delivers a classic experience. With a very high squid content (90%), the focus is squarely on the authentic, savoury flavour and satisfyingly chewy texture of the squid itself. It's seasoned simply with sugar, salt and a hint of red pepper for a traditional taste.
Pros:
Who is it for? Ideal for those who appreciate traditional Asian seafood snacks and prefer a chewy, high-protein option to enjoy with a drink or as a standalone treat.
Why It Stands Out: This snack takes the crispy texture of fried squid and infuses it with the bold, spicy and deeply savoury flavour of jjamppong, a popular Korean spicy seafood noodle soup. The seasoning features mussel and squid extracts, creating a multi-layered umami experience that is both fiery and addictive.
Pros:
Who is it for? Perfect for adventurous snackers and fans of spicy Korean cuisine who are looking for a snack with an intense and memorable flavour profile.
Our recommendations cover a range of popular styles, but the world of dried squid is vast. If you're curious about other flavours, textures or brands, there are many more to discover.
Explore Our Full Range of Squid Snacks
Dried squid has a distinct savoury and umami flavour, often described as a taste of the sea. It's typically balanced with a slight sweetness from sugar or other sweeteners in the seasoning. Depending on the preparation, it can also be spicy, smoky or garlicky. The texture is a key part of the experience, ranging from very chewy to light and crispy.
Most dried squid snacks are designed to be eaten straight from the package, making them a very convenient option. They are excellent on their own, but in many Asian cultures, they are also a popular accompaniment to alcoholic beverages like beer or soju. Shredded squid can also be used as a side dish (banchan) in a Korean meal.
Calamari is the culinary name for squid. While dried squid snacks are made from squid, the term "calamari" in the UK usually refers to fresh or frozen squid, often served as deep-fried rings in restaurants. A dried squid snack is a preserved, ready-to-eat product with a completely different texture and a more concentrated flavour.