Stuffed calamari

Stuffed Squid with Mushrooms and Cheese: A Finger-Licking Delicacy

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of seafood delicacies! Today, I will share with you an enticing recipe for stuffed squid, a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. This recipe brings a modern twist to a classic dish, ideal for serving at a special dinner or simply when you want to indulge yourself.

A Bit of History

Stuffed squid is a beloved dish in many cultures, often associated with traditional seafood meals. This recipe has evolved over time, adapted based on available ingredients. Today, I will show you how to prepare a simple and delicious version, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

- 7 medium squid tubes (approximately 18-20 cm long; it is recommended to use frozen and cleaned squid)
- 1 kg of chopped champignon mushrooms
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Approximately 150-200 g mozzarella, diced
- Approximately 150 g cheese, diced
- 1 large bunch of parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Oil for frying
- 4-5 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 tablespoon of capers
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

Useful

- Large frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Toothpicks or kitchen string to close the squid

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

1. Start by melting the butter in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped mushrooms and sauté until they release all their water and become slightly golden (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the diced red bell pepper, along with the chili pepper and crushed garlic. Continue to sauté the mixture until the garlic becomes fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the filling cool.

Step 2: Preparing the Squid

1. Wash the squid tubes thoroughly inside and out. Ensure they are cleaned of any remnants.
2. Once the filling has cooled, add the diced mozzarella and cheese. Mix everything well.

Step 3: Stuffing the Squid

1. Using a spoon, fill each squid tube with the mushroom and cheese mixture. Be careful not to overfill, allowing room for the cheese to expand during cooking.
2. Close the ends of the squid with toothpicks or tie them with kitchen string to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Step 4: Frying the Squid

1. In a large frying pan, heat enough oil for frying (about 1-2 cm deep).
2. Dredge each squid in flour to create a crispy crust.
3. Place the squid in the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, turning them on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. When ready, add the tomato slices and capers to the pan, along with a bit of brine from the capers and the balsamic vinegar. Let everything simmer together for a minute.

Step 5: Serving

1. Arrange the fried squid on a platter, alongside the tomato and caper mixture.
2. You can garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of rice.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Squid: Make sure to choose good quality squid, preferably fresh or frozen. Fresh squid has a better texture.
- Filling: You can experiment with other filling ingredients, such as olives or various types of cheese.
- Sides: These squid pair perfectly with a garlic mayonnaise dip or a spicy tomato sauce.

Nutritional Information

- Calories per serving: approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can replace squid with fish fillets, such as cod or salmon, but the cooking time will vary.

2. Can I prepare the squid in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed squid 2-3 days ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Fry them just before serving.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a citrus-based cocktail will pair perfectly with the flavors of this dish.

4. Can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! You can replace the mushroom filling with vegetables like zucchini or spinach, adding feta cheese for a special taste.

Final Note

Stuffed squid with mushrooms and cheese is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you choose to serve them on a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. So, wrap yourself in flavors, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a delicious dish. Bon appétit!