Stuffed calamari

Stuffed Calamari Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Stuffed calamari is a delightful dish, perfect for showcasing Mediterranean flavors. Tender squid tubes are filled with a savory stuffing, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, and served as an elegant appetizer or a main course. This recipe guides you through the steps to create perfectly stuffed calamari.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing:

• 8 medium-sized squid tubes (cleaned, tentacles reserved)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled chorizo or sausage (optional)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup white wine or fish stock
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve:

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Crusty bread or cooked pasta (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Calamari:

1. Clean the squid tubes thoroughly, ensuring there are no residual bits inside.
2. Finely chop the reserved tentacles and set them aside.

2. Make the Stuffing:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and chopped tentacles.
2. Add the beaten egg, crumbled chorizo (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the stuffing is moist and holds together when pressed.
3. Stuff each squid tube with the mixture, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top to allow for expansion during cooking. Secure the opening with a toothpick.

3. Sear the Stuffed Calamari:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the stuffed calamari tubes for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

5. Cook the Stuffed Calamari in Sauce:

1. Return the seared calamari to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce.
2. Cover the skillet and let the calamari cook for 15-20 minutes over low heat. Turn the tubes halfway through for even cooking.

6. Finish and Serve:

1. Remove the toothpicks from the calamari before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
3. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce or over pasta for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Cleaning Squid: If purchasing fresh squid, ask your fishmonger to clean them for you. Alternatively, clean them at home by removing the insides, transparent cartilage, and skin.
• Stuffing Variations: Substitute breadcrumbs with cooked rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Add chopped shrimp or crab meat for extra seafood flavor.
• Cooking: Avoid overstuffing the squid, as they may burst during cooking. A gentle simmer ensures the calamari stays tender and does not become rubbery.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Why This Recipe Works

Stuffed calamari is a show-stopping dish that combines simple ingredients for complex flavor. The stuffing is versatile, allowing for creative adaptations to suit your preferences. Cooking the stuffed calamari in a rich tomato sauce not only keeps the squid tender but also infuses it with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. This recipe is sure to impress at your next dinner party or family meal.