Stuffed squid, or Greek stuffed calamari, is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean ingredients into a meal that is not only hearty but also elegantly simple. For those who appreciate seafood or want to try something that brings a bit of Greece into their kitchen, this dish is a must-try. Below, we take you through every detail of the recipe, ensuring that you can prepare this delightful meal with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, this recipe for stuffed squid will make your next meal a memorable one.
What is Stuffed Squid?
In this recipe, calamari (the culinary term for squid) is cleaned, then stuffed with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs. Once prepared, the stuffed squid is baked in the oven, creating a dish that is both tender and flavorful. This Greek version of stuffed calamari is especially well-loved because of its balance of simplicity and sophistication. The subtle flavor of the squid blends perfectly with the seasoned rice filling, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients Needed for Greek Stuffed Calamari
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect stuffed squid:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds whole calamari tubes (cleaned)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for the filling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking pan)
- 1/3 cup olive oil (for the baking sauce)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 medium tomato, grated (discard the skin)
- 1/2 cup chopped dill
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tbsp dry oregano
- 1 cup medium grain rice (uncooked)
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup passata (strained tomatoes, for the filling)
- 1/2 cup passata (for the baking sauce)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup water (for the baking sauce)
Equipment:
- Large sauce pot
- 13 x 9-inch baking pan
- Toothpicks (to seal the calamari)
How to Prepare Greek Stuffed Squid
Step 1: Clean the Squid
If your calamari tubes are not already cleaned, remove the tentacles, head, and internal organs. Be sure to discard the ink sac and cartilage. Rinse the tubes well and set them aside to drain. This can be done with fresh or frozen calamari.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large sauce pot, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Next, add the grated carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Once the vegetables are softened, add the grated tomato, dill, parsley, and oregano to the pot. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. After the vegetables and herbs are well combined, add the medium-grain rice to the pot and mix it in.
Step 3: Season and Add Liquids
After stirring in the rice, pour in 1/2 cup of white wine and 1/2 cup of passata. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Let the mixture cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Once done, remove the pot from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
Step 4: Stuff the Calamari
Using a small spoon, fill each cleaned calamari tube halfway with the rice mixture. Be careful not to overfill as the rice will expand during cooking. Once stuffed, use a toothpick to close the opening of the squid tubes to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with 1 tbsp of olive oil. Arrange the stuffed calamari tubes in the baking pan, making sure they are evenly spaced. If you have any leftover filling, you can spread it around the calamari tubes in the pan.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of passata, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/3 cup of olive oil. Stir until well mixed, then pour this sauce over the stuffed calamari. This sauce will keep the squid moist as it bakes and add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Step 7: Bake the Stuffed Calamari
Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the squid to cook through and the rice to absorb the liquids. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the calamari is tender and the top is slightly browned.
Serving Greek Stuffed Calamari
Once the stuffed calamari is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. The baked calamari tubes should be tender, and the filling should be perfectly cooked. Serve the calamari with a generous spoonful of the sauce from the pan, along with a side of salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
For an extra touch, drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the top of the stuffed calamari before serving. The acidity of the lemon will complement the richness of the olive oil and the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Expert Tips for the Best Stuffed Squid
Use the Right Rice
The type of rice you use is crucial for the success of this dish. We recommend using medium-grain rice because it absorbs flavors well and cooks evenly inside the squid. Avoid using brown rice, as it has a longer cooking time, which could lead to overcooked calamari.
Frozen or Fresh Calamari?
Both frozen and fresh calamari can be used in this recipe. If you’re new to cooking with squid, we recommend using frozen calamari that has already been cleaned. It’s more convenient and tends to be more tender after cooking. Fresh calamari can be delicious, but cleaning it requires more effort.
Don’t Overstuff the Squid
Remember, rice expands as it cooks. To prevent the calamari from bursting, fill each tube only halfway with the rice mixture. Also, sealing the squid with toothpicks is essential to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Wine Substitutes
If you prefer not to use wine in your cooking, you can substitute it with an equal amount of water, vegetable broth, or even clam juice for a seafood-forward flavor. Just ensure that you maintain the liquid ratio to keep the stuffing moist.
FAQs:
Can I prepare the stuffed calamari in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed squid up to a day in advance. Simply stuff the calamari, place it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, follow the instructions from the baking step.
What sides go well with stuffed calamari?
Stuffed calamari pairs wonderfully with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a light rice pilaf. A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing complement.
Can I freeze stuffed calamari?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed calamari before baking. Simply stuff the squid, freeze in an airtight container, and when ready to cook, thaw it completely and bake as per the recipe.
How can I avoid overcooking the squid?
The key to avoiding tough calamari is to either cook it very quickly or slowly over lower heat. This recipe follows the latter method, ensuring that the squid remains tender and moist.
This Greek-style stuffed squid recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. The combination of rice, fresh herbs, and tomatoes stuffed into tender calamari tubes makes for an impressive yet approachable dish. Whether you’re looking for a special meal to serve guests or simply want to try your hand at cooking squid, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
