1. Overview of sun-dried squid Da Nang
Sun-dried squid from Da Nang is a famous souvenir specialty. (Source: Collected)
Sun-dried squid from Da Nang has long become one of the specialties that fascinate tourists whenever they visit the coastal city. Not only attractive for its natural sweet and fresh taste, this dish also embodies the sophistication of traditional preparation methods, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Unlike traditional dried squid dried for many days, sun-dried squid from Da Nang is fresh squid caught directly from local waters, dried only once under the characteristic intense Central Vietnamese sun. This special processing method helps retain about 60–70% moisture in the meat, bringing a chewy, crispy texture yet naturally sweet flavor. Before drying, the squid is washed with seawater to retain its essential saltiness, then dried in the sun for one day and immediately packaged, absolutely not dried again or left overnight.
The outstanding difference compared to regular dried squid is its tenderness and chewy deliciousness when enjoyed. While regular dried squid is often dry, tough, and can be a bit fishy, sun-dried squid from Da Nang retains its aroma and natural sweetness when grilled, fried, or stir-fried. This is why sun-dried squid has become a famous specialty of Da Nang's seafood cuisine, sought after by domestic and international diners whenever they visit the coastal city.
2. Why is sun-dried squid from Da Nang famous?
Da Nang sun-dried squid is delicious and sweet. (Source: Collected)
The waters of Da Nang are famous for their moderate salinity and abundant natural food sources, creating perfect conditions for squid to develop firm flesh. Over generations, local fishermen have accumulated experience and perfected the process from catching, preliminary processing to proper sun-drying, ensuring each product achieves the highest quality. Each step is meticulously carried out, preserving the natural flavor and ideal chewy tenderness.
One of the reasons why Da Nang sun-dried squid has become a popular specialty gift is its convenience in storage and transportation. With moderate moisture, the squid can maintain its quality for many days without refrigeration or special storage conditions. When vacuum-packed, the product is easy to carry on airplanes and retains its characteristic delicious flavor upon arrival to the recipient, making it a meaningful gift for family, friends, or partners.
3. Characteristics to identify authentic Da Nang sun-dried squid
Da Nang sun-dried squid is thick-fleshed, with a natural milky white color. (Source: Collected)
To choose the right standard Da Nang sun-dried squid, you need to clearly understand the characteristics that help distinguish it from regular dried squid or fresh squid. Correct identification not only ensures delicious flavor but also gives you peace of mind about the quality when enjoying or buying as a gift.
Just by observing the outside, you can easily identify Da Nang sun-dried squid compared to other types of squid. Quality products have thick squid bodies, a natural milky white color, a slightly shiny surface, and clearly reveal the meat fibers inside. Unlike dried squid which often has a dark yellow or dull color due to prolonged drying, sun-dried squid still retains the characteristic ivory white color of fresh squid, creating a fresh and delicious impression at first glance.
When gently pressing the squid body, you will feel a moderate elasticity, not too hard like dried squid, nor too soft and mushy like fresh squid. The most important factor for quality assessment is the aroma: genuine sun-dried squid emits a gentle, fresh sea aroma, completely free of fishy or chemical odors. When grilled, the squid meat retains its chewy texture and natural sweetness, ensuring a complete tasting experience without being dry or mushy.
In terms of shape, high-quality Da Nang sun-dried squid usually has a thick, evenly round body, a slender tail section, and naturally light red-tinged fins. The head and tentacles remain firmly attached to the body, not broken or separated – this is a clear sign that the squid has been carefully processed and retains its freshness.
The squid skin is smooth and taut, not torn or contaminated with impurities, which is an important factor in identifying a standard product. When held in hand, a heavy and firm feel indicates the squid meat is still fresh, not dried out.
Especially when grilled over charcoal, fried in butter, or stir-fried with sa tế, Da Nang sun-dried squid still retains its perfect chewy and crispy texture and emits a natural aroma, creating an unforgettable culinary experience for anyone who enjoys it.
4. Traditional Process of Making Da Nang Sun-Dried Squid
Choose fresh, delicious squid to dry in one sun. (Source: Collected)
The process of making Danang one-sun squid is a sophisticated combination of the fishermen's long-standing experience and the characteristic natural conditions of the Central region. From ingredient selection to sun-drying methods, each step is meticulously carried out to preserve the sweet aroma and the special chewy crispness of this specialty dish.
4.1. Selecting the freshest ingredients
The most crucial step to ensure the quality of Danang one-sun squid begins with selecting fresh, delicious ingredients. Only large varieties of leaf squid and tube squid, freshly caught on the same day in the waters of Danang, meet the high standards. The squid's body must be plump, the skin smooth and shiny, without bruises or damage during the catching process.
Local fishermen often prefer squid weighing 300 grams or more, as their flesh is thicker, chewier, and retains its natural sweetness better. Smaller squid, even if fresh, tend to wilt easily and lose their characteristic elasticity when dried in one sun. Furthermore, the time of catch also determines freshness – squid caught in the early morning retain optimal quality, while squid caught in the afternoon may have reduced freshness due to longer storage time in the basket.
4.2. Processing and drying squid according to Danang standards
After careful selection, Danang one-sun squid is cleaned and washed with natural seawater instead of fresh water, to preserve its characteristic salty sea flavor. Skilled artisans process the squid skillfully, cleaning it while maintaining its shape and not damaging the flesh. This step directly determines the freshness and final quality of the product.
The sun-drying stage is a particularly important step in the process. The squid is dried only once under the intense sun of the Central region, starting from around 6-7 AM and collected by 4-5 PM. The weather must be dry with continuous sun for the squid to dry evenly, without becoming damp or moldy. If the weather is overcast or rainy, the workers will stop drying and wait for a suitable sunny day, ensuring the product always meets quality standards and retains its natural sweet, chewy, and crisp flavor.
5. Latest Danang one-sun squid prices 2025
Price of sun-dried squid Da Nang is suitable for tourists' needs. (Source: Collected)
The price of sun-dried squid Da Nang in 2025 is always of interest to many tourists before choosing to buy as gifts or enjoy on the spot. The price changes depending on the type of squid, size, and packaging, but generally reflects the quality and flavor of this famous seafood specialty.
Large size sun-dried squid (8 – 10 pieces/kg): about 850,000 – 900,000 VND/kg
Medium size sun-dried squid (20 – 25 pieces/kg): about 650,000 – 800,000 VND/kg
Small size sun-dried squid (25 – 30 pieces/kg): about 500,000 – 550,000 VND/kg
Additionally, there is a mini sun-dried squid variety on the market with a lower price, ranging from 300,000 – 450,000 VND/kg. However, this type is usually not preferred because the meat is thin, and the flavor is not as sweet and rich as the large, medium, or small size sun-dried squid.
To buy quality sun-dried squid Da Nang at a reasonable price, tourists should choose reputable specialty stores or large supermarkets. These places usually list stable prices, with not much difference between peak and off-peak seasons.
6. Reputable places to buy sun-dried squid Da Nang 2025
Buy Da Nang sun-dried squid at reputable addresses. (Source: Collected)
To buy authentic and quality Da Nang sun-dried squid , choosing the right reputable address is extremely important. In 2025, the city has many reliable specialty stores and supermarkets, helping visitors easily find delicious, safe products suitable as gifts.
6.1. Top quality Da Nang sun-dried squid buying addresses
Sun-dried squid is one of the outstanding specialties that visitors often look to buy when visiting Da Nang. To ensure quality and be assured of the origin, you should choose reputable stores and supermarkets that have been highly rated by many customers.
Huong Da Specialty Store is a destination trusted by many visitors when looking to buy Da Nang sun-dried squid . The store ensures a stable supply, a transparent return policy, and free vacuum packaging service. Customers are also provided with detailed instructions on how to preserve sun-dried squid to retain its full flavor and natural chewiness.
Dai Loc Phat Supermarket, with many branches across the city, is also a reputable choice for those who want to buy quality sun-dried squid. All products have publicly listed prices, clear labels and certification documents, helping customers be completely assured of the origin and quality.
Additionally, Qua Mien Trung Supermarket specializes in providing Central Vietnamese specialties, including sun-dried squid, with a variety of product types and prices suitable for all needs, from buying for family use to giving as luxurious gifts.
6.2. Notes when ordering online or buying for takeaway
To buy quality Da Nang sun-dried squid , visitors not only need to pay attention to the flavor but also to the origin and preservation methods of the product. Whether choosing to buy online or in person, understanding these important notes will help you avoid risks and confidently enjoy the famous specialty of the coastal city.
When buying Da Nang sun-dried squid online, visitors should pay special attention to checking seller information, referring to actual customer reviews, and requesting real product images. Prioritize shops that have been operating for a long time, have a fixed store address, and a clear warranty policy. Absolutely avoid buying products with unusually low prices compared to the market, as this could be low-quality goods or unsafe.
For takeaway items, carefully check the vacuum-sealed packaging, ensure it is intact, along with labels containing full information about the production date, expiry date, and the production facility's address. Some reputable stores also provide food safety and hygiene certificates, helping customers be completely assured of the quality and origin of Da Nang sun-dried squid .
7. Suggestions for combining sightseeing – shopping
Visit Sun World Ba Na Hills when traveling to Da Nang. (Source: Collected)
Combining sightseeing and shopping when visiting Da Nang will make your trip more interesting and complete. Visitors can both explore famous tourist attractions and buy local specialties like sun-dried squid as gifts or enjoy with family.
Visitors can plan to visit Sun World Ba Na Hills in the morning, then in the afternoon enjoy the sea breeze at My Khe beach and visit shops near the beach to buy Da Nang sun-dried squid . This itinerary helps optimize time, while providing a complete experience from the beauty of mountains and forests to the blue sea and enjoying the city's famous specialties.
Additionally, Han Market and Dam Market are also ideal stops to explore unique architecture and shop for local specialties. Many tourists often choose to buy sun-dried squid in the afternoon, before heading to the airport, to ensure freshness and convenience for transport home.
8. Tips for choosing and preserving Da Nang sun-dried squid
Choose quality Da Nang sun-dried squid as gifts. (Source: Collected)
To fully enjoy the flavor of Da Nang's seafood specialties, choosing the right fresh sun-dried squid and knowing how to preserve it correctly are key factors. The following tips will help you easily identify quality squid and retain its characteristic flavor throughout its use.
When choosing Da Nang sun-dried squid, the first thing to pay attention to is its color and shape. The squid's skin should maintain a natural milky white color, without yellowing or strange black spots. The squid's body should be plump and round, still elastic when lightly pressed, not dented or mushy. The tentacles (mienor) should be firmly attached to the body, not detached or damaged, ensuring a fresh product.
The most important factor in identifying high-quality sun-dried squid is its smell. Good squid will have a gentle sea aroma, combined with the natural saltiness of seawater, completely free of fishy, sour, or chemical odors. If any strange smell is detected, the squid may have been stored for too long or preserved improperly, reducing its quality when consumed.
Immediately after purchase, Da Nang sun-dried squid should be stored in vacuum-sealed packaging to limit exposure to air and bacteria, preserving its natural flavor. If vacuum sealing equipment is unavailable, you can use a sealed zip-top bag, expelling all air before placing it in the refrigerator's cool compartment at 2-4°C, helping the squid retain its freshness for 5-7 days.
For long-distance transportation, use a styrofoam box with dry ice or a specialized cooler bag to prevent the squid from spoiling. Do not leave the squid at room temperature for more than 4 hours, as this will reduce its natural sweetness and chewy texture. Upon returning home, you can place the sun-dried squid in the freezer, using it gradually within 2-3 months while still ensuring the quality and characteristic flavor of this Da Nang specialty.
9. Outstanding dishes made from sun-dried squid
Enjoy delicious charcoal-grilled Da Nang sun-dried squid. (Source: Collected)
Da Nang sun-dried squid is not only a famous specialty but also an ingredient for many attractive dishes. To fully appreciate the flavor, you should refer to standard preparation methods along with health considerations when enjoying this special seafood.
Charcoal grilling is a traditional preparation method that preserves the natural flavor of Da Nang sun-dried squid . The squid is placed directly on hot coals, occasionally brushed with a thin layer of oil so the skin is evenly golden and not burnt. When enjoying, you can dip it with chili garlic sauce mixed with sugar and lime, creating a harmonious sweet and sour taste, highlighting the squid's characteristic chewy sweetness.
Butter-fried squid is an attractive dish with a crispy shell and tender, chewy squid inside. The sun-dried squid is cut into bite-sized pieces, coated with flour, fried golden in hot butter, then sprinkled with pepper and garnished with culantro leaves.
Squid stir-fried with sa tế is a rich, spicy dish typical of the Central region. The squid is stir-fried with bird's eye chilies, minced garlic, and fish sauce, bringing a distinctive flavor, stimulating the palate, and is very suitable to enjoy with white rice or as a side dish for drinking.
Da Nang sun-dried squid is not only a renowned specialty but also a meaningful gift imbued with the flavor of the Central Vietnamese sea. With the secrets of choosing the right quality, tourists can rest assured bringing back quality gifts that are both delicious and show sophistication in choosing Da Nang specialties.
