Squid is delicious when cooked properly, but cleaning it can be intimidating for many home cooks. While squid cleaning requires some technique, itβs actually quite straightforward once you know what youβre doing. Today, Iβll guide you through a simple step-by-step on how to clean squid.
Are you a fan of squid and love cooking it but you are afraid of cleaning this delicious seafood yourself? I used to be like you and learned how to clean squid like a pro. You don't need a special skill, simply grab a chopping board, knife, and clean water.
Cleaning your squid could save you more money if you wanted to make my salt and pepper calamari. So instead of just buying the squid ring, go buy a large whole squid and prepare it yourself.
Things Youβll Need
- Fresh large squid (tube and tentacles intact)
- Small sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl of ice water
Step-by-step
Step 1: Remove the head from the tube. Hold the body of the squid with one hand and the head with the other. Twist and pull the head away from the body. The innards with the ink sac should come out with the head.
Step 2: Then separate the tentacles from the head. Therefore slice right underneath the eyes of the squid. Try the keep the tentacles in one piece. Remove the beak or hard part of the tentacles.
Step 3: Remove the transparent quill. Look inside the cut opening of the mantle and youβll see a clear, plastic-like βpenβ or quill. You can do this by peeling it off with your fingers. It should come off easily.
Step 4: Peel the Skin. The squidβs skin can become quite rubbery when cooked. Make shallow diagonal slices along one side of the mantle to carefully peel and pull the purple skin off to expose the white flesh.
Step 5: Clean out the interior reach inside the opened mantle and pull out any remaining visceral matter or entrails until completely hollowed out. Rinse under cold water.
Step 6. Slice Tubes for Cooking. Slice your cleaned open tubes into rings about 1β4 to 1β2 inch thick. You can leave tentacles whole or chop them. Submerge all prepared squid in an ice water bath for 30 minutes to tenderize before cooking as desired!
And thatβs it - you now have beautifully cleaned squid ready for all your favorite recipes. With this simple tutorial, you will now have the confidence to clean the squid and cook your favorite squid recipes to share with your family and friends.
Squid Recipes To Try
- Squid Adobo - This tasty Filipino-style Squid Adobo (Adobong Pusit) is a delightful twist with its tender squid that absorbs flavors from the marinade and incorporates its ink for intense adobo flavor. This rich, savory, and tangy dish is easy to make a perfect idea for busy weekdays
2. Squid Adobo with Coconut Milk - Squid Adobo with Coconut Milk is a creamy, tasty, and savory Filipino adobo variation simmered in coconut milk to make a perfect blend of a delicious main dish. This takes 30 minutes to cook with just a few ingredients.
3. Salt and Pepper Squid (Air-Fryer) - Salt and Pepper Squid (Air-Fryer) also called Chinese-style Calamari is a perfectly crispy and crunchy appetizer, side dish, or snack recipe cooked in the air-fryer that seasons well with salt, pepper, and other seasonings and uses less cooking oil. It is delicious and enjoyable in every bite with or without sauce. It's perfect to please friends and family.
4. Stuffed Grilled Squid - Your family and friends will love this easy Stuffed Grilled Squid recipe. It is a delicious and versatile seafood dish that takes well to grilling. This grilled squid has a tasty charred flavor and beautiful texture that pairs nicely with its perfect and flavorful stuffings.
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If you like this recipe, please give me a 5-star review and comment below this post. If you have any questions, write them down below in the comment section. I truly appreciate you.
Mary
This is super useful. Thank you!
Jomelyn
Mary, thank you for your feedback. I'm glad is useful π