“Kanavai” in Tamil, “Koonthal” or “Kanawa” in Malayalam, “Kalamri” in Hindi or Squids in English – they can be called cousins of Octopus, having elongated bodies, large eyes, eight arms and two tentacles.
Squids are highly intelligent and are found in oceans, including the chilly waters of Antarctica. Usually pale and white, squids can change the colour of their body from rust brown to pink or red or bright metallic rainbows. A popular seafood, squids are used in varied cuisines around the world and are often termed “calamari”.
Are squids fish?
Because both of them have aquatic habitats, the answer to the question appears to be a Yes, but it’s actually a No! A squid is not a fish. Fish have spinal cords and bones while squids do not have these body parts.
Where are squids found?
Squids are found in both oceanic and coastal waters. Some squids prefer cold seas while others thrive in tropical waters, but as a species, they are present across the world waters. The United States, European Union, China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia account for the majority of the market for squids.
How can you identify a fresh squid?
A squid’s white part should be very shiny or bright and must have an intense colour. If the body colour is tending to be yellow, then the squid wouldn’t be fresh. Squids have an oceanic scent if fresh, and fishy if not fresh. Fresh squid should look plump and not deflated.
If you think you would rather get squids from a place of trust, we have got your back.
You can buy Licious Squid Rings that pass multiple quality and freshness checks before reaching you.
How tasty are squids?
Squids are mildly sweet and have a nutty flavour. They do not taste or smell fishy at all. The meat is slightly firm but squidgy.
How nutritional are squids?
Squids have a high nutritional content; they come with lots of protein and minuscule fats. They are high in:
Zinc
Selenium
Copper
Vitamin B12
What cooking methods are most suitable for squids?
Squids can fit into diversified methods of cooking and are really easy to cook. They can be grilled, boiled, fried, curried, stewed or battered. The body can be cut into flat pieces, sliced into rings or just stuffed whole.
A thing to remember: Squids need to be cooked either low-and-slow or hot-and-fast to achieve that tender, springy-but-not-chewy texture. Else, it may just turn rubbery
What kinds of recipes are meant for squids?
Squids can be eaten in a variety of ways. They can be a dish or served as a part of a dish such as the well-known Spanish Paella.
Squids are used for sushi, sashimi and tempura items. They can be consumed as squid gravy (koonthal varattiyathu/roast) or deep-fried (koonthal fry). Squids can also be grilled, stuffed, covered in batter and served in stir-fried, rice and noodle dishes. Dried, shredded squid is a sought-after snack in some Asian regions, including East Asia.
Other recipes include Squid Risotto, Salt and Pepper Squid and Spanish Rice-Stuffed Squid. Looking for a quick starter recipe using Squids? Here you go!
Try out Licious Squid Rings. No hassle of removing tentacles and membranes. Squid rings from Licious are thoroughly cleaned, neatly cut and ready for your pan. Fry them or grill them, they will taste like heaven. So, what are you waiting for? Order now!
If you make this recipe remember to snap a few pics and share them on Instagram. Tag us with #MadeWithLicious, we’d love to see your creations!
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