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Spicy Sizzling Squid (Sisig na Pusit)

This spicy sizzling squid, known as sisig na pusit, is a vibrant and nutritious take on a classic Filipino favourite. Traditionally made with richer meats, this seafood version offers a high-protein alternative that captures all the bold, savoury flavours of the original. The combination of zingy calamansi juice, pungent garlic and a hint of chilli creates a sophisticated depth that perfectly complements the tender texture of the fresh squid.

Ideal for a quick midweek dinner or a striking weekend starter, this dish is best served immediately while still sizzling in the pan. The addition of crushed prawn crackers and salmon roe provides a delightful contrast in texture and a salty pop of flavour. Serve it alongside hot jasmine rice or with extra prawn crackers for scooping, ensuring plenty of fresh lime wedges are available to brighten the finished dish.

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Ingredients for Spicy Sizzling Squid (Sisig na Pusit)

  • 450g (500 g) cleaned fresh squid tubes and tentacles

  • 45ml fresh calamansi (or lime) juice

  • 1 tablespoon dark Filipino cane vinegar (sukang iloco)

  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

  • 1 large shallot, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped

  • 1 or 2 Thai chilli peppers, thinly sliced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 spring onions (spring onions), thinly sliced

  • 1 tablespoon salmon roe, plus more for serving (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons crushed prawn crackers

  • Halved calamansi limes (or lime wedges), for serving

How to make Spicy Sizzling Squid (Sisig na Pusit)

Bring 2.8L of water to a boil in a large pot set over high heat. Meanwhile, cut the squid tubes into 1/2-inch (1 cm) rings. Blanch all of the squid rings and tentacles in the boiling water for 10 seconds. Drain immediately in a large colander set in the sink and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the calamansi juice, vinegar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Add the drained squid to the bowl and toss well to combine. Set bowl aside.

Place a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the canola oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the hot pan. Add the shallot, garlic and chilli peppers and cook until the garlic just begins to brown, about 30 seconds. Stir in the squid and all of the liquid from the bowl and continue to cook for 1 minute more, until the squid is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then scatter the spring onions, salmon roe and crushed prawn crackers on top of the squid.

Remove from the heat and serve immediately in the pan while still sizzling. Offer calamansi limes alongside for squeezing, with additional salmon roe if desired. Enjoy with rice or serve with whole prawn crackers for scooping the sisig nacho-style.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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