Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style

Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style Recipe

Region / culture: Cyprus | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style is a traditional dish that combines tender squid with a flavorful blend of spices and wine. This dish is popular in Cyprus and is known for its bold flavors and unique cooking techniques.

History

The recipe for Spicy Squid in Wine has been passed down through generations in Cyprus. It is a dish that is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. The combination of squid, wine, and spices creates a dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) Small squid
0.25 cup olive oil or corn oil
3 onions, peeled, sliced
0.25 cup vinegar
0.5 cup Dry red wine
2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 bay leaf
salt & freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Wash and clean the squid by separating the outer sacs from the heads and tentacles. Remove and discard the translucent cartilage, small sand bag, and ink.
Rub salt on the outer sacs and rinse them inside and out with cold water. Rinse the head and tentacles thoroughly.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the squid, including the tentacles, and onions. Cook slowly until the onions become translucent.
Pour the vinegar and wine over the squid and onions. Then, add the remaining ingredients and enough water to almost cover the squid, if necessary.
Cook, uncovered, over low heat until the squid are tender and all the wine has been absorbed. This should take approximately 1 to 1.25 hours.
Remove the spices and bay leaf. Cut the squid into bite-sized pieces and serve either warm or cold.

Variations

Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Use white wine instead of red wine for a lighter taste.
Add chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to clean the squid thoroughly before cooking to remove any sand or ink.

- Cooking the squid slowly over low heat allows the flavors to develop and the squid to become tender.

- Adjust the amount of spices and wine to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Squid in Wine can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or crusty bread. It can also be served as an appetizer or as part of a meze platter.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the squid over low heat allows the flavors to develop and the squid to become tender.

- Removing the spices and bay leaf before serving ensures that the dish is not overpowering.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use calamari or cuttlefish instead of squid.

- Olive oil can be used instead of corn oil for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Spicy Squid in Wine can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spicy Squid in Wine in a shallow bowl garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy Squid in Wine pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light red wine. It also pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Spicy Squid in Wine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Squid in Wine contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Squid in Wine contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Squid in Wine contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Squid in Wine contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Squid in Wine is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and calcium.

Alergens

Spicy Squid in Wine contains seafood and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Summary

Spicy Squid in Wine is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Summary

Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender squid, bold spices, and rich wine sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in Cyprus for the summer. My aunt was an amazing cook, and I loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her work her magic with ingredients.

One day, she told me she was going to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes - Spicy Squid in Wine. I was intrigued, as I had never tried squid before, let alone cooked with it. But my aunt assured me that it was a delicious and easy dish to make, and that I would love it.

We started by preparing the squid, cleaning it and cutting it into rings. My aunt showed me how to remove the ink sac and inner cartilage, and explained that it was important to do this properly to ensure the dish would have a nice texture and flavor. I was fascinated by the process, and watched closely as she expertly handled the slippery seafood.

Next, we marinated the squid in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, and fresh herbs. The aroma of the marinate was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. My aunt explained that the key to making Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style, was to let the squid marinate for at least an hour, to allow the flavors to meld together and infuse the seafood.

Once the squid had marinated, we heated some olive oil in a large pan and added the squid, along with some chopped tomatoes and a generous splash of red wine. The sizzle of the squid hitting the hot pan was music to my ears, and I eagerly watched as the dish began to come together.

As the squid cooked, my aunt added more spices and seasonings to the pan, adjusting the flavors to her liking. She explained that cooking was all about taste and intuition, and that it was important to trust your instincts when it came to seasoning and flavoring dishes.

After letting the squid simmer in the wine and tomato sauce for a few minutes, my aunt declared that it was ready to serve. She scooped the Spicy Squid onto a large platter, garnishing it with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. The dish looked stunning, with vibrant colors and enticing aromas wafting through the kitchen.

I eagerly took my first bite of the Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style, and was blown away by the flavors. The squid was tender and flavorful, with a hint of spice from the chili flakes and a richness from the red wine. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

As I grew older, I continued to make Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style, for my family and friends, sharing the recipe with anyone who asked. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think back to that summer in Cyprus, and the magic I felt watching my aunt create something so delicious and special.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will feel the same sense of wonder and joy that I did all those years ago. Cooking is a beautiful and rewarding art, and it is my greatest pleasure to share this recipe with you, and to pass on the tradition of creating delicious meals with love and passion. Enjoy the Spicy Squid in Wine, Cyprus Style, and remember the story behind it – a story of family, love, and the joy of cooking. Bon appétit!