How to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari

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Calamari rings or strips bear so little resemblance to the squid from which they came that it is hard to know where to begin when confronted with a fresh squid. If done correctly, however, squid cleaning can be simple, quick, and minimally messy.

Steps

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    You will see the head, where the eyes and tentacles are, is distinctly separate from the body, or mantle.
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    These are not necessary for safely handling squid, but will keep squid residue from getting on your hands and imparting a "fishy" smell.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari
    Pull gently and steadily forward, keeping a firm grasp on the head. The internal organs should slide out. [1]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari
    Feel for a hard, fingernail like sheathing; grab this and pull it out. [2]
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    The speckles on the squid should peel off in a cellophane-like sheet, leaving behind slick white meat. [3]
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari
    Set aside. [4]
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari
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  • Question
    Is it okay to eat squid?
    Qamar
    Top Answerer
    Yes, squid is edible, as long as it is prepared properly and cooked well.
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  • Question
    How long should I poach squid?
    Community Answer
    North Beach Restaurant in San Francisco makes great marinated calamari. They told me to boil it 3 minutes, then remove and cool it under running water. I think you should bring the water to a boil BEFORE you drop the squid into the hot water. Otherwise, it will be in hot water too long and become tough.
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  • Question
    Can I eat the head of the squid?
    Community Answer
    You can eat the head, but you cannot eat the beak.
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      Tips

      • The squid's ink is contained in a silvery sac (about .5 cm long). This can be punctured, releasing the ink, which is used to flavor some dishes. [5]
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      Warnings

      • Like all seafood, squid must be either cooked or refrigerated promptly to reduce disease risk.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Squid
      • Sharp knife
      • Rubber Gloves
      • Newspaper
      • A plate or Tupperware container

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUIHg-RNR28
      2. ↑ https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/videos/techniques/how-prepare-squid
      3. ↑ https://www.saveur.com/article/techniques/how-to-clean-calamari/
      4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQciYO8Jvqs
      5. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-clean-cook-squid-calamari-tips-recipes-article
      6. https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/squidwithmintchillic_90292

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Ophelia Carter

        Mar 25, 2019

        "Followed your 7 steps on how to make calamari. I did it at home, and it was a hit!"
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