Among all the coastal specialties of Côn Đảo, one-sun dried squid is undoubtedly one of the most beloved dishes—simple, fragrant, and bursting with pure ocean sweetness. Made from the freshest squid species such as reef squid, cuttlefish, and especially arrow squid (the best type for this dish), Côn Đảo’s one-sun dried squid is only dried under a single stretch of sunlight, keeping the meat firm, juicy and full of flavor.
A flavor that wins over every traveler
No matter which restaurant you walk into on the island, a plate of one-sun dried squid is always an easy and delicious choice. Each preparation brings out the natural sweetness of the squid, with its distinct smoky aroma and pleasantly chewy texture that makes you crave another bite.
Popular one-sun dried squid dishes in Côn Đảo
Char-grilled squid with chili salt – Perfect for beer lovers, spicy, salty and addictive.
Squid grilled with satay – For those who love heat and bold flavors.
Charcoal-grilled squid – Simple but flavorful, best enjoyed with chili sauce.
Steamed squid with scallions – Soft, sweet and extremely aromatic.
Crispy fried squid / deep-fried squid – Golden, crunchy and ideal for kids.
Squid stir-fried with fish sauce – Slightly salty, perfect with warm white rice.
Squid stir-fried with mixed vegetables – Versatile and suitable for both family meals and casual drinking sessions.
Easy to find – perfect as a travel gift
Côn Đảo is truly the land of squid. You can find fresh squid, dried squid, and one-sun dried squid almost everywhere — from street stalls, seafood markets, and restaurants to local supermarkets.
If you want to bring some home:
- Choose pre-packaged one-sun dried squid at supermarkets or specialty stores for convenience when flying.
- Buying from Côn Đảo Market is also an option, but remember to bargain, as prices may be quoted higher for tourists.
Words don’t quite capture the full charm of Côn Đảo’s one-sun dried squid — you have to taste it yourself to feel the sweet, chewy, ocean-kissed flavor. So if you set foot on the island, make sure this dish is at the top of your culinary must-try list.
