Calamari, a word that conjures images of crispy golden rings and fancy restaurant menus, has become a staple in seafood cuisine worldwide. But what exactly is calamari, and why has it captured the taste buds of food lovers everywhere? This article will explore the origins, preparation, and cultural significance of this popular dish.
The Origins of Calamari
Calamari is basically squid which is chopped in rings. Calamari, the Italian word for “squid,” has become synonymous with a popular seafood dish enjoyed around the world. The term originates from the Latin “calamarium,” meaning “ink pot,” a reference to the squid’s ink sac.
Squid has been seen consumed by many cultures in the past. The Roman and the Greeks used to prepare squid with olive oil and several herbs. Squid has been a part of Japanese and Chinese diet for many centuries for it’s nutritional value. In the coastal region of Italy, Spain and Greece Calamari is deeply rooted in local diet and often used in many traditional practices. Calamari is considered to be halal.
What Species of squid commonly used for calamari ?
European squid (Loligo vulgaris): Common in Mediterranean dishes
Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas): Popular in the Americas
Japanese flying squid (Todarodes pacificus): Widely used in Asian cuisine
What are the Nutritional benefits of Calamari ?
Squid is an excellent source of protein and contains fewer calories than many other seafood options. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium.
How to Prepare Calamari: Techniques and Methods
Squid anatomy plays a crucial role in calamari preparation:
Mantle: The main body, often sliced into rings
Tentacles: Usually served alongside rings or in whole preparations
Ink sac: Used in some dishes for flavoring and coloring
Cleaning: Remove the head, internal organs, and skin. Optionally, keep the tentacles.
Cutting: Slice the mantle into rings or strips, or leave whole for stuffed preparations.
Tenderizing: Brief cooking times or longer braising help avoid a rubbery texture.
Popular Calamari cooking methods include:
Deep-frying: Coat in seasoned flour or batter and fry at high temperature for 2-3 minutes.
Grilling: Marinate and grill quickly over high heat to enhance natural flavors.
Sautéing: Cook briefly in olive oil with garlic and herbs for a Mediterranean touch.
Braising: Slow-cook in wine or tomato sauce for tender, flavorful dishes.
Common marinades often include lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like parsley or oregano.
Calamari Dishes Around the World
Calamari’s global popularity has led to diverse preparations:
Mediterranean:
Italian fritti di calamari: Lightly battered and fried, served with lemon
Greek kalamarakia tiganita: Similar to Italian style, often served with skordalia (garlic dip)
Spanish calamares a la romana: Battered rings served with aioli
Asian:
Japanese ika sushi: Raw squid in sushi or sashimi
Korean ojingeo bokkeum: Stir-fried squid in a spicy gochujang sauce
Thai pla muek yang: Grilled squid with spicy dipping sauce
American adaptations:
Rhode Island-style: Fried calamari tossed with hot cherry peppers
Calamari po’ boys: Fried calamari in a sandwich with remoulade sauce
Fusion dishes: Calamari tacos or calamari pizza, blending cuisines
Serving and Pairing Calamari
Calamari is versatile in presentation and pairing:
Accompaniments:
Classic: Lemon wedges, marinara sauce, aioli, or tartar sauce
Creative: Chimichurri, Thai sweet chili sauce, or wasabi mayo
Beverage pairings:
White wines: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complement fried calamari
Light red wines like Pinot Noir pair well with grilled preparations
Beers: Light lagers or wheat beers work well with most calamari dishes
Serving styles:
As an appetizer: Small portions, often served in a cone or on a small plate
Main course: Incorporated into pasta dishes, risottos, or seafood platters
Calamari has evolved from a humble seafood ingredient to a beloved dish appreciated worldwide. Whether you prefer it crispy and fried or tender and grilled, calamari offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the versatility of squid. Next time you see it on a menu or at your local seafood market, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for this tasty treasure from the sea.
