Introduction

Provencal Stuffed Squid is a marvelous dish that marries the flavors of the sea with classic Mediterranean herbs and seasonings. This dish is not only visually stunning but also embodies the essence of home cooking – warmth, flavor, and care.

Filled with a delicious mixture of rice, herbs, and vegetables, these squid are baked to perfection, absorbing the savory ingredients around them. This dish brings a taste of southern France right to your kitchen, inviting you to explore its rich culinary landscape.

Ingredients

4 large squid (about 500g)
The main ingredient, squid, provides a tender, slightly sweet seafood flavor that serves as the perfect vessel for the stuffing. Freshness is key, so look for squid that is firm and has a clean ocean smell.
1 cup cooked rice
Rice acts as the base of the stuffing, absorbing flavors and adding a satisfying texture. It provides substance and enhances the dish's heartiness, making it filling without overpowering the seafood.
1 medium onion, finely chopped
Onion adds sweetness and depth to the stuffing. When sautéed, it becomes tender and caramelized, enriching the overall flavor profile of the dish while providing aromatic elements.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the stuffing with its characteristic pungency and warmth. Its aromatic properties elevate the overall complexity, ensuring the dish has a depth that balances the subtlety of the squid.
1 medium tomato, diced
Tomatoes contribute acidity and freshness, brightening the stuffing while harmonizing with the other components. They also help to create a moist filling that contrasts with the chewy nature of the squid.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Parsley adds a fresh, herbal note to the filling and garnishes the dish, enhancing its visual appeal. Its bright green color and flavor bring a refreshing element that ties into the Mediterranean theme.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Thyme is a classic herb used in Provencal cuisine, infusing the dish with earthy and aromatic notes. It complements both the seafood and the vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming.
Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning is essential in balancing flavors. Salt enhances the natural taste of ingredients, while pepper adds a hint of warmth, allowing each component to shine through.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil adds richness and moisture to the stuffing, providing a smooth mouthfeel. It is a staple in Mediterranean cooking, enhancing the flavor of the dish while promoting browning during cooking.
1/2 cup white wine
White wine adds acidity and depth, helping to deglaze the pan after sautéing the stuffing ingredients. It also infuses the dish with a subtle complexity, heightening the flavors of the seafood and herbs.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the squid.

Start by cleaning the squid. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water, ensuring to remove the innards and any cartilage from inside the body. It's essential to do this carefully to maintain the integrity of the squid, as you want to have intact 'pockets' for stuffing. After cleaning, you can either leave the tentacles whole or chop them to include in the stuffing.

Step 2: Cook the rice.

If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions. Using leftover or pre-cooked rice is perfectly fine, as the supplementary flavors from the stuffing will enhance plain rice. Cooking the rice beforehand allows it to absorb the stuffing's flavors without becoming mushy or overcooked.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatics.

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This step is critical as the foundation of the dish relies on these aromatics to build flavor in the stuffing. Be careful not to brown the garlic too much, as it can become bitter.

Step 4: Add tomatoes and herbs.

Add the diced tomato, cooked rice, parsley, and thyme to the sautéed onions and garlic. Mix well and season generously with salt and pepper. This mixture should be well-combined and heated through, allowing the flavors to meld. The moisture from the tomatoes will help to soften the rice and contribute to the stuffing's overall flavor profile.

Step 5: Stuff the squid.

Using a spoon, carefully stuff each squid with the rice mixture, leaving a little room at the top for expansion during cooking. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Ensure they are packed but not overly stuffed; too much filling can cause the squid to burst during cooking. Setting aside the tentacles for later use can create a more cohesive dish with added texture.

Step 6: Preheat the oven.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your squid cooks evenly. A preheated oven will allow for optimal browning and cooking of the squid and stuffing, enhancing the presentation and flavor of the final dish.

Step 7: Place squid in a baking dish.

Arrange the stuffed squid in a greased baking dish. Pour the white wine around the squid to keep the environment moist during baking. The wine will deglaze the pan flavors while infusing the squid as they bake. Make sure the squid are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking; they should have space to release juices and steam.

Step 8: Bake the squid.

Bake the squid for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squid is tender and cooked through. You can check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork; if it flakes easily, it’s ready! This is a critical step to achieve perfectly cooked squid; overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.

Step 9: Serve and enjoy.

Once the squid are cooked, remove them from the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes, then remove toothpicks or twine. Serve warm, drizzled with pan juices and garnished with additional fresh herbs. This presentation enhances the dish's visual appeal and offers a fantastic dining experience, inviting everyone to dig in.

The Essence of Provencal Flavors

Provencal cuisine is characterized by an array of fresh ingredients and herbs that bring vibrancy to each dish. Ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fragrant herbs create a symphony of flavor that transports diners to the sun-soaked shores of southern France. In this recipe, the use of parsley and thyme not only enhances the stuffing but embodies the heart of Provencal cooking, making every bite a cheerful reminder of Mediterranean summers.

Variations on a Classic

While this recipe follows a traditional approach, the beauty of Provencal Stuffed Squid is its versatility. You can experiment with different stuffing ingredients: swap rice for quinoa for a nuttier flavor or add diced vegetables for extra crunch and freshness. You could also consider introducing spices or using various seafood in the stuffing – the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

Perfect Pairings

To complement the flavors of Provencal Stuffed Squid, consider serving it with a light side salad of mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette. Crusty bread is also an excellent addition, perfect for sopping up the juices. A chilled glass of white wine or rosé pairs beautifully with the seafood, creating a refreshing balance that enhances the dining experience.

FAQs

What should I do if the stuffing is too thick?

If the stuffing feels dry or too thick, try adding a little olive oil or a splash of broth to loosen it up. Adjusting moisture with liquid ingredients helps bind the stuffing better and enhances flavor.

Can I substitute squid with a different seafood?

Absolutely! You can use other seafood options like large shrimp or scallops, though cooking times may differ. Make sure to adjust accordingly based on the chosen protein to ensure everything is cooked properly.

What can I do if my squid turns out rubbery?

Rubbery squid is often a sign of overcooking or high heat. Ensure you bake it until just cooked through, checking for doneness to retain tenderness. Proper timing is key for achieving the perfect texture.

How can I enhance the flavor if the dish is bland?

If you find the dish lacking in flavor, consider adding more herbs, spices, or a touch of lemon juice to brighten it up. A pinch of salt or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can also elevate the dish remarkably.

Can I make this using frozen squid?

Yes, frozen squid can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and cleaned before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results, maintaining their texture.

How can I tell when the stuffing is heated through?

The best way to ensure the stuffing is heated through is to pierce the squid with a fork to check the center. If it feels hot to the touch and the stuffing is steaming, it is ready to serve.

Can I add cheese to the stuffing?

Adding cheese is a delightful option to consider! A sprinkle of feta or grated parmesan can bring an extra layer of flavor and richness to the stuffing. Just be mindful not to overpower the light taste of the seafood.

Should I keep the tentacles in the stuffing?

Including the tentacles in the stuffing or serving them on the side can add a textural contrast to the dish. If you like a more uniform stuffing, integrating them into the filling will provide additional seafood flavor.

Conclusion

Provencal Stuffed Squid is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings friends and family together around the table. The aromatic filling and tender squid create a dish that feels both special and comforting.

With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is sure to impress, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. Embrace the joy of cooking and step into the Mediterranean with this delightful recipe.

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