What is Calamari?

Fried calamari or fried squid?

If you’re a seafood enthusiast, the term ‘calamari’ is likely familiar to you. Known for its crispy, golden-fried goodness and tender, flavourful rings, calamari has become a staple in restaurants and households worldwide. But what exactly is calamari?

This delicacy, which may sound foreign to some, is a borrowed 17th-century Italian word. Despite its unfamiliar sound, calamari’s popularity extends far beyond Italy, intriguing food lovers all over the globe.

Are Squid and Calamari the Same?

First off, is calamari squid? The quick answer is yes. But while the two terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a difference between them.

Calamari vs squid

A squid is a marine creature that belongs to the cephalopod family, sharing its underwater habitat with other cephalopods like octopus and cuttlefish. On the other hand, calamari refers specifically to the culinary preparation of squid. 

Originally, the word ‘calamari’ served as the plural of ‘calamaro,’ the Italian word for squid. This term was derived from a Latin word that means ‘ink pot’ or ‘pen case.’ Given that squids eject ink, it makes sense that it would influence the name of the dish made from squid. This is where the distinction lies—calamari is a dish, while squid refers to the actual creature.

The way the term ‘calamari’ is used can vary by region and culture. For example, in many Southeast Asian countries, ‘squid’ is the most common term, even on restaurant menus. However, ‘calamari’ is a universally recognised term and is used in various culinary contexts.

When prepped and cooked right, Loligo squid only needs a squeeze of lime to bring gastronomic bliss.

Imagine the crisp bite you can get from this thick Gould’s squid.

Preparing Calamari

It’s time to prepare calamari for cooking. Start by cleaning your fresh squid properly. Remove its head, long tentacles and internal organs. The squid’s head and tentacles are often used in specialised dishes, while the body is typically sliced into rings.

Also, remember to remove the squid’s ink sacs, as they contain dark ink that can be used to prepare dishes like squid ink pasta. When dealing with frozen calamari, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

Once you’ve prepped and cleaned the squid, the world is your oyster…or calamari. You can bread it for a crispy texture, marinate it for added flavour or use slow cooking methods to achieve perfect tenderness.

You can also choose to save time by ordering cleaned squid tubes.

Easy Calamari Recipes

Calamari can be prepared in various mouthwatering ways. Here are three simple calamari recipes that showcase the culinary diversity it offers:

1. Fried calamari (calamari fritti)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) calamari rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• vegetable oil for frying
• lemon wedges for serving

Battered and crumbed, these calamari strips are ready to be fried at home. Order them from Manettas!

Instructions:

1. Clean the calamari, removing the head, tentacles and internal organs.
2. Slice its body into rings.
3. Combine the salt, flour, black pepper and paprika in a bowl.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 175-190°C (350-375°F).
5. Dip the squid rings into the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated, and shake off excess flour.
6. Carefully place the coated calamari into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
7. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil, drain on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges. This fried version is a classic and irresistible way to enjoy calamari.

2. Slow-cooked calamari in tomato sauce

3. Calamari marinara

What Does Calamari Taste Like?

Calamari boasts a mild, slightly sweet flavour with a hint of the sea. When cooked correctly, its meat is tender and not overly chewy, making it a delightful treat for seafood lovers. The flavour profile of calamari is versatile, which is why it pairs well with various accompaniments and sauces.

How about some stuffed calamari for your family dinner? Order from Manettas now!

Best Ways to Serve Calamari

Calamari’s versatility makes it a star ingredient in many dishes. Whether you prefer it battered and fried, stuffed with delicious fillings or simmered in a savoury sauce, there’s a calamari dish to suit your taste. 

In Mediterranean cuisine, for example, calamari is a common dish often served as an appetiser or a main course. And if you go to Japan or some Japanese restaurants, you’ll see it eaten raw as sushi.

Speaking of Mediterranean cuisine, this Mediterranean-inspired gluten-free stuffed squid is a real winner.

Calamari: A Seafood Gem Delivered to Your Home

With its distinctive flavour profile, calamari captures the essence of the sea and brings it to your plate. It’s bound to ignite your passion for seafood, no matter the cooking method. If you’re looking for top-quality squid for your next culinary creation, turn to Manettas. In addition to seafood, Manettas also offers meat and fresh produce, ensuring you can get the finest ingredients without leaving the comfort of your home.