Techniques

How to Clean Calamari

4 quick steps for cleaning squid

To make calamari dishes like calamari with chorizo and artichokes, start with whole baby squid and break it down. Here's how to do it:

1 Slice squid in half just below the eyes, separating the tentacles from the head; reserve tentacles.

2 Holding the body, gently pull out the head, intestines, ink sac, and clear skeleton; discard innards.

3 Working from the cut end of the body, grasp the thin skin. Peel back toward the tip and discard.

4 Rinse squid body and tentacles before cooking. Slice body crosswise into rings for salads and soups.

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