Cleaning squid is simple once you get the hang of it. Follow these step-by-step instructions for how to clean squid for cooking and explore the various ways cleaned squid can be created into flavorful and amazing dishes.
So this article on how to prepare and clean squid is very important to me for a few reasons. I grew up eating lots of squid dishes. Often, an adobo squid or simply sautéd and blackened by squid ink. I think having an early introduction allowed me to be open to lots of seafood and realize all the great flavors out there.
Now, my kids love calamari. Yea, I know. Fried squid rings without the tentacles and inky black sauce…but at least we like squid so far. In order to not always spend a fortune to eat out calamari, I love to clean squid and make it myself at home, as well as few other dishes that easily incorporate squid from stir frys to soups.
Instructions how to clean Squid
1: Remove the Head and Tentacles
- Hold the squid’s body (mantle) with one hand and grasp the head with the other.
- Gently pull the head away from the body. The innards should come out along with it.
2: Remove the Innards and Transparent Quill
- Inside the body, you’ll find a long, clear, plastic-like quill (also called the cuttlebone).
- Reach inside and pull it out completely.
3: Cut and Clean the Tentacles
- Locate the beak (a hard, round piece in the center of the tentacles).
- Cut just above the eyes to separate the tentacles from the head. Discard the head and beak.
- Rinse the tentacles under running water to clean them.
4: Peel Off the Outer Skin (optional)
- The squid’s body has a thin purplish skin. To remove it, pinch the skin and peel it away. You can also leave it, especially if you like it for grilled squid.
- You can also rub it off under running water.
5: Rinse the Body Inside and Out
- Run water inside the squid’s body to remove any leftover bits.
- Make sure it’s fully clean before cooking.
6: Slice Into Desired Shapes
- Pat the squid dry as much as possible.
- Leave the body whole for stuffing, or cut it into rings for frying and grilling.
- The tentacles can be left whole or chopped as needed.
Notes
- Use fresh squid for the best taste!
- Keep cleaned squid in the fridge if not using immediately.
- Dry squid with a paper towel before cooking for better texture.
Cooking Tips
- Avoid overcooking squid, as it can become rubbery. Most methods only require a short cooking time.
- Pair cooked squid with fresh herbs, citrus, or spicy sauces for enhanced flavor.
Ways to Cook Squid
Squid can be prepared in a variety of delicious ways, each bringing out its unique flavor and texture. Here are some popular methods to cook squid:
Grilling
- Preparation: Marinate cleaned squid in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for about 30 minutes.
- Cooking: Skewer squid and grill over flame at medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s charred and opaque. Use a soaked skewer so the skewer doesn’t burn.
Frying
- Preparation: Cut the squid into rings and coat them in flour with potato starch or breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cooking: Deep-fry in hot oil (350 F) until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, then drain on on elevated wire rack.
Sautéing
- Preparation: Slice the squid into rings or leave them whole.
- Cooking: Heat oil in a pan, add garlic and onions, then add squid over high heat and sauté for 3 minutes.
Stewing
- Preparation: Cut squid into pieces and brown in a pan with olive oil and aromatics.
- Cooking: Add diced tomatoes, broth, and spices such as those in sinigang. Simmer for about 40 minutes until tender.
Braising
- Preparation: Clean and cut squid into desired sizes.
- Cooking: Braise in a flavorful liquid (like broth, coconut milk, wine butter, or adobo sauce for adobo pusit, aka squid adobo) on low heat for around 45 minutes or until tender.
Baking
- Preparation: Stuff the cleaned squid bodies with a mixture of rice, herbs, and seafood.
- Cooking: Place in a baking dish, cover with sauce (tomato or white wine), and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes.
Now you’re ready to cook!
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