How to cook squid properly, so that the meat is tender: step-by-step instructions

How to cook squid properly, so that the meat is tender: step-by-step instructions

In the material you will find delicious recipes for cooking the popular seafood.

Manager of the “Treasures of the Seas” corner in the gastro quarter “Three Vokzala. Depot”, chef

“Squid is loved not only for its unique flavor, but also for its useful properties. This seafood is a source of substances necessary for the body: vitamin B, zinc, Omega-3 and iodine. The last element helps to improve memory and reduce stress if you regularly eat this product. It also contains a lot of protein with low calories, so it is suitable even for those who are watching their diet.”

How to choose squid?

Not all squid can be eaten. Of the 200 species, only a few dozen are edible. In stores, the product can be found in frozen form: carcass, fillets and rings. It is better to choose raw or mechanically cleaned meat.

Some manufacturers may use chemical treatment, which affects the taste, quality and useful properties. It is also worth paying attention to the color of the meat. It should have a creamy color. This indicates that the squid was stored correctly.

Methods of cooking

Mollusk is widespread throughout the world, so you can meet a lot of cooking options. This is due to its delicate flavor and nutritional value. The meat can be boiled, fried, stewed, baked, marinated, dried and even consumed raw.

How to cook squid correctly?

Often many people do not know how to cook squid correctly, so that the meat turns out tender, and the size does not decrease. In fact, it is simple, the main thing is to know a few rules:

• cook seafood should be cooked only in defrosted form;
• the cooking time should not be long.

It is also important to observe the sequence:

1. First of all, it is necessary to properly defrost the product. To do this, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours. After a few more hours it should lie at room temperature. These actions will allow you to preserve the structure and evenly boil.
2. Before buying, pay attention to whether you purchase cleaned squid or not. If you have uncleaned clams, then it is necessary to remove the film. For this, a quick immersion in boiling water will help. You can boil water in a saucepan, add salt to it. Take culinary tongs and each piece separately lower for 5-10 seconds and remove. It is important to transfer them to a container with ice after that.
3. Allow the meat to cool. Then they can be cleaned – the upper film is easily removed.
4. Now the seafood is ready for cooking. It is important to remember: the less heat treatment, the better. Send the cleaned squid into boiling salted water. To enhance the flavor of squid, also add vinegar or lemon juice. About one tablespoon per one liter of water. You need to wait for the water to boil again. Turn off the fire. Squid are ready!

Tip: if the protein in the squid continues to curdle, you can stop this process by transferring the product to a container with ice or cold water.

Recipes

Squid in tomato sauce

Mediterranean cooking, of course, is rich in seafood dishes. Braised calamari in tomato sauce is the epitome of this cuisine.

Ingredients:

• squid – 700-800 g;
• tomatoes in their own juice – 300 g;
• medium-sized onion – 1-2 pcs;
• garlic – 2-4 cloves;
• vegetable oil – 3 tbsp.
• salt and black pepper – to taste.

Preparation:

1. Rinse squid with boiling water, clean and rinse.
2. Cut into rings.
3. Chop tomatoes, onion and garlic.
4. In a skillet, heat some of the oil over medium heat.
5. Fry the calamari for about 3-5 minutes, season with salt and pepper, and place on a plate.
6. Heat the remaining oil over medium heat, fry the onion and garlic.
7. Add tomatoes and juice, braise for about 5 minutes.
8. Place the squid and leave on the heat for 3-4 minutes.

Fried squid with onions

Tender and flavorful squid cooked in a frying pan can be an addition to the main course.

Ingredients:

• squid – 1 kg;
• onion – 1 medium size;
• garlic – 3 cloves;
• vegetable oil – 2 tbsp;
• soy sauce – 1-2 tbsp;
• salt and black pepper – to taste
• sugar – 1 tsp.

Preparation:

1. Squid meat should be lowered for 40-50 seconds in boiling water, then clean and rinse. Cut the carcasses into rings, and onions into half-rings.
2. Chop garlic.
3. Heat the oil in a frying pan.
4. Fry the onions until golden.
5. Add the squid and cook for another minute.
6. Then increase the heat, add the soy sauce and spices.
7. Stir and fry for a couple more minutes.
8. Sprinkle with garlic and the dish is ready.

Suitable combinations

Such appetizers are better served on the table on a common plate, so that everyone can try the delicacy. Squid perfectly harmonize with vegetables (carrots, corn, cabbage), fruits (apples and pineapples), as well as with different sauces, spices, cheese and mushrooms. Their taste will be perfectly emphasized by drinks with fruity tones, medium acidity.