Squid Rings: Reinventing a Filipino Favorite

For many Filipinos, squid (pusit) usually brings to mind dishes like adobong pusit or grilled squid stuffed with onions and tomatoes. But there’s another way to enjoy this seafood staple that’s gaining popularity on local tables: squid rings. More than just the crunchy calamari we order at restaurants, squid rings can be a versatile, everyday ingredient in Filipino cooking.

Why Squid Rings Work in Filipino Meals

Quick to Cook – Perfect for busy weeknights, squid rings turn tender in just minutes.

Flavor Absorber – Their mild taste makes them a blank canvas for bold Filipino flavors.

Affordable & Accessible – Frozen squid rings are easy to find in groceries, making them convenient for home cooks.

Filipino-Inspired Dishes with Squid Rings

1. Adobo-Style Squid Rings
   Instead of whole squid, use rings for a lighter take on adobong pusit. Simmer quickly in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and a touch of calamansi for tang.
   
   

2. Squid Ring Caldereta
   Add squid rings to the classic tomato-based stew with bell peppers and potatoes. Their tender bite adds a seafood twist to a beloved dish.
   
   

3. Squid Ring Sinigang
   Swap shrimp or pork with squid rings in a tamarind broth. The sour soup cuts through the natural sweetness of squid, making a refreshing meal.
   
   

4. Pancit Canton with Squid Rings
   Toss lightly sautéed squid rings into stir-fried noodles for a seafood-loaded pancit. They add chewiness that balances the vegetables and sauce.
   
   

5. Boodle Fight Essential
   Lay out crispy fried squid rings alongside grilled liempo, bangus, and shrimp on banana leaves. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
   
   

Squid rings aren’t just appetizers — they’re an ingredient that can slip seamlessly into Filipino dishes we already love. Whether it’s adobo, caldereta, or pancit, squid rings prove they can be both comfort food and celebration food.