Dried Squid
– Freshly dried squid will have a white belly, pink back, and faint black spots under the skin; otherwise, it’s an older catch.
– The tentacles should be white-pink and firmly attached.
– High-quality dried squid won’t have a strong fishy smell, and it should feel dry, not moist, to the touch.
– For grilling, choose squid with a flat body and thicker flesh, as it will taste better than thinner varieties.
Dried Shrimp
– The best dried shrimp are usually made from freshwater shrimp and have a color similar to red brick.
– Safe shrimp will have firm flesh and no strange odors.
– Avoid shrimp that are too light or too dark in color, as they may have been bleached or dyed.
Dried Fish
– Quality dried fish will be a translucent yellow, and the eyes will be a cloudy white.
– If the fish looks dull, has dark spots, and feels moist, it’s been stored for too long and won’t taste as good.
– Freshly dried fish will have a mild fishy smell, not a strong one.
– Dry, non-slimy fish is a sign of quality.
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to choose safe and tasty dried seafood. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!