What You’ll Need:
- 6 large squid tubes
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fish or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preparing the Squid
Start by cleaning the squid tubes under cold running water. Remove the tentacles and set them aside for later use. In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stuff each squid tube with the breadcrumb mixture, making sure not to overstuff them. Seal the opening of each tube with a toothpick to prevent the stuffing from falling out during cooking.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery stalks. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and start to develop a golden color. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Creating the Stew Base
Add the diced tomatoes, fish or vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the stew base for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cooking the Squid and Assembling the Stew
Place the stuffed squid tubes and reserved tentacles into the pot with the stew base. Gently stir to ensure they are evenly distributed. Cover the pot and let the stew cook over low heat for 35-40 minutes, or until the squid becomes tender and the flavors have infused.
Serving Suggestions
- Once the stuffed squid stew is ready, remove the toothpicks from the tubes and discard them.
- Serve the squid stew hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
- Pair the stew with a side of crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
With this recipe, you’ll discover a whole new world of squid cuisine. The moist and tender squid, combined with the rich and flavorful stew, will captivate your senses. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the dish to your liking. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, this stuffed squid stew will surely leave a lasting impression on your palate.