Seafood is traditionally and widely used in dishes of Spanish, French, Italian cuisine. In general, it is difficult to name representatives of the Mediterranean region who would not relate with special awe to dishes from marine inhabitants. Recently, they, considered until recently as delicious and quite rare guests in the Russian cuisine, occupy their place on our tables.
This is no wonder! Due to the high content of very valuable protein in them, the absorption of which takes a longer time than fish protein, these products are much more satisfying. They contain few carbohydrates and fats, so they can be perfectly used as a product for weight loss, on which the so-called Mediterranean diets are based .
In addition, seafood is rich in vitamins and minerals, which help strengthen bones and teeth, and support the health of the thyroid gland. A special role is played by omega-3 acids, which reduce cholesterol accumulating in the body, thereby protecting our heart and blood vessels from heart attacks, strokes and other misfortunes. The list of seafood is extensive. This is, first of all, seaweed and shrimp, oysters and mussels, lobsters, crab and squid.
Let us dwell on the latter in more detail. Squids are especially rich in protein, they contain vitamins C and B, trace elements. Today squids can be bought at almost any supermarket. Braised squids or salads with their use are very tasty. However, a great role here is played by their correct choice and subsequent preparation. Choose only frozen squid carcasses so that they are not bitter or creep when cooking. They also should not be stuck together, they are supposed to be easily separated from each other.
So, we chose the squid, now it remains for the small - to cook them. As a rule, squid dishes do not require a lot of time, but the result, with proper observance of the recipe, exceeds all expectations.
Let's try, for example, stewed squid.
You will need:
- squid meat - 500 gr;
- milk - 1.5 cups;
- onion - 2 pcs;
- salt;
- flour - 2.5 tbsp. spoons;
- pepper.
Defrost squid meat (can be in cold water). Next, you need to clean the top film and rinse well in running water. Squids are cut into longitudinal strips, salted to taste and fried with flour. Onions (it will be necessary to cut finely) are also slightly fried in vegetable oil. After a few minutes, add flour and continue to frying for another 5 minutes, stirring continuously. Transfer the onions and squids into a deep frying pan or saucepan, add milk, salt, pepper, close the lid and simmer over low heat for 25-30 minutes.
So, you already know how to stew squids. Only half an hour of time, and your guests will be delighted. Now try to cook baked squid.
Required Products:
- 500 gr squid;
- 500 gr of champignons (fresh);
- 2 onions;
- cheese;
- 1 tbsp. a spoon of sour cream;
- 1 tomato;
- greens.
Boiled squids are boiled in salt water for several minutes, then cut into strips. Chop the onion, fry, add chopped mushrooms and fry until cooked. Cut the tomato and herbs, then you need to put sour cream and salt. Mix everything with squid. Grease the form with butter, then put the squid with mushrooms, cover with grated cheese and bake in the oven at a maximum temperature of 10-15 minutes.
By the way, stewed squid can be mixed with any previously boiled or fried side dish, for example, rice, barley, mushrooms, vegetables and you have a light and hearty dinner. In addition, stewed squids are delicious with various sauces. Try them with any: sour cream, ketchup, mustard, as well as with the addition of garlic, basil, celery root, apples.
How to stew squids, we told you, and then do not be afraid to experiment. As already mentioned, a lot of other dishes can be prepared from them: salads, soups, casseroles, pancakes, julienne and even meatballs. Enjoy your meal!