Ikayaki

One of the favorite Japanese street food varieties is a serving of tender grilled squid known as ikayaki. It can employ different types of squid in varying sizes. Serving styles usually range from chopped squid rings to skewered whole pieces. Squid tentacles can be left out or incorporated into the dish, and occasionally they even make the central part of ikayaki. Usual accompaniment to the dish is soy or teriyaki sauce, or a traditional Japanese marinade which typically includes rice wine, miso paste, ginger, and soy sauce. The squids are prepared quickly, which leaves them tender and plump. The squids should be served immediately once they are off the grill. Although ikayaki is often served as a restaurant dish, it is more commonly sold by street vendors who prepare and offer this delicacy on the markets, around Japanese shrines, and during the local festivals. In restaurants, they can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or as the main dish alongside rice and salad.