Sambal Squid Stir Fry
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Sambal Squid Stir Fry (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sambal Squid Stir Fry is a beloved dish in Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, often found sizzling in kopitiam stalls across the island. This recipe is a perfect fusion of Southeast Asian flavors, where tender squid is tossed with aromatic sambal—a spicy, savory chili paste that is the soul of many local dishes. The stir fry embodies the multicultural influences of Singapore’s food scene, blending Malay, Peranakan, and Chinese culinary traditions into a single plate. With its fiery kick and umami depth, Sambal Squid Stir Fry offers a satisfying lunch option that’s both authentic and health-conscious. The dish’s origins trace back to the bustling hawker centres, where fusion is the norm and local ingredients reign supreme. Singaporeans love sambal for its bold taste, and squid provides a protein-rich, lean base. When prepared with fresh vegetables and lighter oils, this stir fry becomes a wholesome meal suitable for calorie-conscious diners. It’s ideal for a midday meal, providing a burst of energy and flavor without heaviness. The combination of spicy sambal, chewy squid, and crisp vegetables creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting—true to the Singaporean spirit of innovation and tradition.
Ingredients(for 1 plate (approx. 250g per serving))
- 300g Fresh squid (Cleaned, sliced into rings)
- 3 tbsp Homemade sambal (Chili paste; use local blend if possible)
- 1 small Red onion (Sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 100g Long beans (Cut into 4cm pieces)
- 1 medium Tomato (Diced) - optional
- 1 tbsp Canola oil (Healthier choice)
- 1 wedge Lime (For garnish) - optional
- 2 tsp Light soy sauce (Preferably low sodium)
- 1/2 tsp Sugar (Optional, to balance heat) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Clean and slice the squid into rings. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
5 minutes
Dry squid cooks faster and prevents excess liquid in stir fry.
- 2
Heat canola oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced red onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
3 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
- 3
Add homemade sambal to the wok. Stir and fry until oil separates, enhancing the aroma.
3 minutes
Cook sambal thoroughly for deeper flavor.
- 4
Add long beans and diced tomato. Stir fry until beans are crisp-tender.
5 minutes
Keep vegetables slightly crunchy for better texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it uses lean seafood, fresh vegetables, and a minimal amount of oil. By preparing sambal at home, you control the spice and sodium levels, making it suitable for calorie and sodium-conscious eaters. It’s high in protein and fiber, keeping you full longer and supporting muscle health. The vibrant flavors make it satisfying without the need for heavy sauces or processed ingredients.
Sambal Squid Stir Fry is rich in high-quality protein from squid, which is also low in saturated fat and calories. The addition of long beans and tomatoes supplies dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium. Homemade sambal can be tailored to reduce sodium and oil, making this dish a nutritious option. Squid is a good source of B12 and selenium, supporting metabolism and immune health. Using canola oil and minimal sugar makes this recipe heart-friendly.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh squid for the best texture; frozen squid can be rubbery.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust sambal spice level according to preference—homemade sambal is best.
- 💡Tip 3: Add other local vegetables like baby kailan or capsicum for extra nutrition.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the squid.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 260.0 kcal |
