What You’ll Need
- 1 fresh cuttlefish
- Water
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step 1: Cleaning the Cuttlefish
Start by rinsing the cuttlefish under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a sharp knife to remove the head and tentacles. You can save the tentacles for another dish if you like. Peel off the skin and discard it, and then remove the internal organs, including the ink sac. Rinse the cuttlefish again to make sure it’s clean, then set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Boiling Water
Fill a large pot with water, leaving enough room for the cuttlefish to cook without overflowing. Add salt to the water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
Step 3: Cooking the Cuttlefish
Gently add the cleaned cuttlefish to the boiling water. If desired, you can also add a couple of cloves of garlic for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the cuttlefish to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Be careful not to overcook it, as this will make the flesh tough and rubbery.
Step 4: Cooling and Serving
Once the cuttlefish is cooked to perfection, remove it from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Transfer it to a plate or cutting board and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, you can slice it into thin strips or rings.
Serve the boiled cuttlefish with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus flavor. Alternatively, you can use the boiled cuttlefish as an ingredient in other dishes such as salads, stir-fries, or pasta.
Enjoy your freshly boiled cuttlefish!
Extra Tips:
- For added flavor, you can marinate the cuttlefish with some lemon juice, olive oil, and your favorite herbs and spices before boiling.
- If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak the cuttlefish in milk for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t discard the ink sac! You can use it to add flavor and color to sauces or rice dishes.
- Always choose fresh cuttlefish for the best taste and texture.
Now that you know how to boil cuttlefish, why not give it a try? It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy this unique seafood. Happy cooking!