Spicy Thai Squid With Chiles and Cilantro

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Rinse squid under cool running water. Drain and transfer them to a paper towel to dry completely. Cut bodies into ½-inch rings and halve tentacles.

2. Step 2

   Place a large skillet over high heat. Let pan get very hot, heating it for a good 5 minutes. Move half the squid from the paper towels to a bowl, so they don’t stick when you slide them into the pan. Add 1 tablespoon oil to skillet. Season squid with salt, slide them into the pan, and cook without moving for 1 minute. Flip squid and cook 30 seconds more. Repeat with remaining squid and oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your skillet doesn’t fit the squid comfortably, cook them in smaller batches.

3. Step 3

   In a medium bowl, combine cooked squid with lime juice and zest, fish sauce, shallot, jalapeño and cilantro. Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour (or refrigerate for up to 6 hours, then bring to room temperature before serving). Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve mounded onto cucumber rounds or scooped into shot glasses (and served with a fork), with peanuts sprinkled on top.