All About Tinned Squid
What is a Squid?
Squid are marine cephalopods known for their elongated bodies, large eyes, and eight arms along with two longer tentacles. Some squid grow no bigger than a fingernail, while others grow as long as a school bus. The most commonly eaten squid, such as California market squid and shortfin squid, average about a foot long.
Squid are found around the world. They are famous for their ability to expel ink when evading predators, and for the power and length of their tentacles, which leave scars on their predators. Despite that fame, though, no one has ever seen a squid and whale in combat.
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What Varieties of Tinned Squid are There?
Tinned squid comes in various preparations, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions that use squid. Like many other tinned fish, they are often simply packed in oil or water. But squid also offer some unique preparations: You can find it packed in its own ink, or even stuffed.
Here are some of the varieties of squid we’ve shipped at Tinned Fish Club:
- Spanish Stuff Chiparones: Tender baby squid packed with tomato, pepper, and onions.
- Italian Squid in Tomato Sauce: A classic preparation with a tangy tomato sauce that enhances the natural taste of the squid.
- Portuguese Squid in Ink: Squid preserved in their own ink, providing a deep, briny flavor. Read more about La Barca and traditional Galician seafood.
What Are Some Recipes for Tinned Squid?
Squid are a popular ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean and east Asian cultures. While squid in the United States is most commonly fried with batter, in Japan it can be found prepared by nearly every method–from raw to dried squid jerky.
Tinned squid is not only convenient but also offers a rich and versatile addition to any dish. It is a fantastic pantry staple, providing both nutrition and gourmet taste. Here are some ideas for using tinned squid at home:
- Authentic Squid Ink Pasta with La Barca Squid in Ink: Pasta, squid, olive oil and red pepper: A simple but delicious combination.
- Squid Salad: Mix tinned squid with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing salad.
- Squid Pasta: Combine tinned squid with garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley for a quick and flavorful pasta dish.
- Squid Stew: Add tinned squid to a tomato-based stew with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The world's best tinned fish, on your table every month.
Three curated tins from small canneries in Portugal, Spain, Denmark and beyond, with the recipes and maker stories that go with them.
Tinned Fish Club for August 2026: Bom Petisco Tuna in Brine, Ati Manel Garfish in Spiced Olive Oil, Fangst Brisling No. 4
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