How to Clean and Prepare a Squid to Make Calamari

Calamari rings or strips bear so little resemblance to the squid from which they came that it is hard to know where to begin when confronted with a fresh squid. If done correctly, however, squid cleaning can be simple, quick, and minimally messy.

Steps

1
Lay squid on a sheet of newspaper. You will see the head, where the eyes and tentacles are, is distinctly separate from the body, or mantle.
2
Put on rubber or latex gloves. These are not necessary for safely handling squid, but will keep squid residue from getting on your hands and imparting a "fishy" smell.

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3
Grasp the squid's head right behind the eyes where it joins the mantle. Pull gently and steadily forward, keeping a firm grasp on the head. The internal organs should slide out.^{[1]
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4
Reach into the mantle, which now resembles an empty sack. Feel for a hard, fingernail like sheathing; grab this and pull it out.^{[2]
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5
Gently scrape the outer surface of the mantle with a sharp knife. The speckles on the squid should peel off in a cellophane-like sheet, leaving behind slick white meat.^{[3]
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6
Cut the mantle into rings by slicing vertical to the line of the squid's back. Set aside.^{[4]
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7
Fold the newspaper around the unwanted squid parts, and dispose.

Community Q&A

Question

Is it okay to eat squid?

Qamar

Top Answerer

Yes, squid is edible, as long as it is prepared properly and cooked well.
Question

How long should I poach squid?

Community Answer

North Beach Restaurant in San Francisco makes great marinated calamari. They told me to boil it 3 minutes, then remove and cool it under running water. I think you should bring the water to a boil BEFORE you drop the squid into the hot water. Otherwise, it will be in hot water too long and become tough.
Question

Can I eat the head of the squid?

Community Answer

You can eat the head, but you cannot eat the beak.