What You’ll Need
To begin, gather the following essentials:
- A batch of fresh small squids
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A bowl of cold water
- Paper towels
Step 1: Preparing the Squids
Start by rinsing the small squids under cold water to remove any dirt or sand on their surface. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them on the cutting board.
Step 2: Removing the Tentacles
Hold the squid firmly with one hand and use the other hand to pull the tentacles away from the body. You should be able to remove the entire cluster of tentacles in one piece.
Step 3: Removing the Head
Locate the squid’s head, which is connected to the body just above the eyes. Use your knife to make a clean, horizontal cut right below the eyes. Discard the head.
Step 4: Peeling Off the Skin
Gently peel off the purplish skin from the squid’s body. Start at the top and work your way down, ensuring you remove the skin entirely. Rinse the squid again to remove any residue.
Step 5: Removing the Quill
Inside the squid’s body, you’ll find a transparent cartilage called a quill. Locate the quill and grasp it firmly between your fingers. Slowly pull it out, ensuring it detaches completely.
Step 6: Cleaning the Body
Rinse the squid’s body in cold water to remove any remaining innards. Ensure you rinse both the inside and outside thoroughly. Pat the squid dry with paper towels.
Step 7: Final Check
Inspect the cleaned squid for any missed parts or residual skin. Make any necessary touch-ups using your knife or by rinsing again. Once you’re satisfied, place the cleaned squid in your desired container and pat yourself on the back – you’ve mastered the art of cleaning small squids!
Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time. With experience, you’ll become more efficient and confident in your cleaning skills. Now it’s time to put those freshly cleaned small squids to good use in your favorite recipes. Enjoy!