There’s something truly enchanting about an unexpected dish that captures the essence of comfort while delivering a delightful twist. When I first tried my hand at making Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’, the combination of tender squid enveloped in a rich, umami-packed sauce stopped me in my tracks. The sizzle of squid as it hits the pan blends seamlessly with the aromatic notes of sake and miso, creating a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for any home cook eager to elevate their weeknight meals.
With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, this squid pasta dish is not just a feast for the palate; it’s also a conversation starter. Imagine gathering loved ones around the table, each bite drawing oohs and aahs, and realizing that you’ve broken the mold of everyday cooking. The best part? It brings together the familiarity of pasta with an adventurous twist that even the most seasoned foodies will appreciate. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s bound to impress!
Why is Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ a Must-Try?
Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of squid and rich umami sauce elevates your pasta experience to gourmet levels, making every bite irresistible.
Quick Cooking Time: Using straightforward techniques, this dish comes together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without fuss.
Showstopper Presentation: The vibrant colors and garnishes like shiso leaves and pink peppercorns create a stunning visual appeal that is sure to impress at any dinner table.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with protein and goodness, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta dishes, keeping your health in mind without compromising on flavor.
Conversation Starter: The unexpected twist of squid Bolognese invites intrigue and excitement, making this dish a guaranteed hit among family and friends. Dive into the full instructions for more cooking tips!
Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’ Ingredients
For the Squid
- 10 oz squid, main body – Ensure it’s skinned and cleaned for the best texture in your Bolognese.
- 7 1/16 oz squid, wings and tentacles – These parts add extra flavor and bite to the sauce.
For the Sauce
- 1/4 oz tomato purée – This brings a touch of sweetness and color to your Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’.
- 3 oz sake – Adds depth and a lovely aroma; choose a good quality for the best outcome.
- 1 3/4 oz saikyo miso – The white miso contributes richness and a subtle sweetness to balance the dish.
- 1/4 oz soy sauce – Opt for tsukuri soy to enhance the umami flavor profile of your sauce.
For the Dashi
- 2 1/8 pints filtered water – Use filtered for purity and the best flavor extraction.
- 1/2 oz kombu – Infuses the broth with a natural sweetness and depth.
- 1/3 oz dried shiitake mushrooms – Provides an earthy note that complements the squid beautifully.
- 2/3 oz bonito flakes – A key player in the dashi, enhancing the umami profile of your dish.
- 1/4 oz light soy sauce – Adds an additional layer of flavor to the dashi.
- 1/4 oz Maldon salt – Used to season the dashi, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients.
For Garnishing
- Shiso leaves – Finely julienned for a refreshing herbal note that dazzles.
- 1 slice bottarga – Ideally toasted over charcoal for an intense flavor punch.
- 1 pinch pink peppercorns – Adds a touch of spice and a pop of color for presentation.
- 1 pinch sanshō – This Japanese pepper adds a unique zest to your dish.
With these ingredients ready, you’re set to whisk your loved ones away on a culinary adventure! Cooking with Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ not only tantalizes the taste buds but also encourages delightful conversations around the table. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’
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Prepare the squid. Start by skimming and cleaning both the main body and the wings and tentacles of the squid. This will ensure a tender and flavorful result for your pasta.
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Sauté the main body. Heat 1/3 oz of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the main body of the squid. Season lightly with 1/16 oz of Maldon salt and cook until the squid is tender and lightly golden, then set it aside.
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Create the sauce. In a separate pot, combine 7 1/16 oz of squid wings and tentacles, 1/4 oz of tomato purée, 3 oz of sake, 1 3/4 oz of saikyo miso, and 1/4 oz of soy sauce. Stir well and simmer until the sauce thickens beautifully, about 10-12 minutes.
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Prepare the dashi. Boil 2 1/8 pints of filtered water in a pot and add 1/2 oz of kombu, 1/3 oz of dried shiitake mushrooms, and 2/3 oz of bonito flakes. Allow it to simmer gently, then strain and mix in 1/4 oz of light soy sauce, 1/4 oz of Maldon salt, and 1/2 oz of sake.
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Combine and serve. Serve the tender squid on a plate topped generously with the Bolognese sauce. Garnish it with finely julienned shiso leaves, a slice of bottarga, and a sprinkle of pink peppercorns and sanshō for a burst of flavor.
Optional: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil before serving for an added touch of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’?
Elevate your dining experience with perfectly paired sides that harmonize with the flavorful allure of your squid dish.
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Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty delight adds a comforting crunch, effortlessly perfect for scooping up the robust Bolognese sauce.
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Crispy Polenta Fries: These golden sticks contrast beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth squid, offering a satisfying crunchy experience in every bite. Serve them hot, and watch them disappear!
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Fresh Arugula Salad: With its peppery greens and a lemon vinaigrette, this salad brings a refreshing brightness that complements the rich flavors of the sauce, balancing your meal perfectly.
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Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy tomatoes create a vibrant side that harmonizes with the umami richness while adding pops of flavor and color to your plate.
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Chilled Sake: Serve a glass of this traditional accompaniment, enhancing the dining experience by mirroring the sake used in your Bolognese sauce. Its lightness pairs beautifully with seafood-based dishes like this one.
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Milk Chocolate Mousse: Close your meal with a creamy dessert that contrasts the savory elements of the main dish. The silky texture and sweet notes will leave your guests feeling absolutely delighted!
Storage Tips for Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’
Room Temperature: Serve your Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ hot for the best flavor, but if left at room temperature, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the squid’s tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without squid) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, do so over low heat on the stove or microwave until thoroughly heated to preserve the dish’s flavors and avoid overcooking the squid.
Make Ahead Options
These Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can clean and prepare the squid (both the main body and the wings/tentacles) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can make the Bolognese sauce and Koi-dashi ahead of time, allowing them to chill for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a pan, sauté the previously cooked squid briefly to warm through, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in minutes. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights!
Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’ Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish with these creative twists that enhance flavor and fit your dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a light, healthy alternative.
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Vegan: Use mushrooms instead of squid and replace the dashi ingredients with vegetable broth and miso for a rich umami flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an exciting heat that will ignite your palate.
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Citrusy Zest: Mix in a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest just before serving to brighten the flavors and add an unexpected citrus note.
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Herb Infusion: Swap shiso for fresh basil or parsley depending on available herbs; each brings its unique aroma and taste to the dish.
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Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan cream to create a richer sauce that enhances mouthfeel.
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Seafood Boost: Combine with shrimp or clams for a seafood medley that will elevate the indulgence and complexity of your Bolognese.
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Nutty Flavor: Toast some pine nuts or sesame seeds and sprinkle them on top for a crunchy contrast that elevates your dish to gourmet status.
Embrace these variations and make this Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ truly your own! Your loved ones will be thrilled with every new twist.
Expert Tips for Making Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’
Quality Squid Matters: Use fresh Cornish squid for the best flavor; frozen squid may result in a chewier texture.
Watch the Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the squid; it should be tender but not rubbery. Keep an eye on it during sautéing!
Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer until thickened; this will enhance the umami flavors and create a richer sauce for the Bolognese.
Strain Dashi Carefully: To avoid any gritty bits, strain the dashi thoroughly before adding it to your sauce. This keeps your Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’ smooth.
Garnishes Make a Difference: Don’t skip the garnishes! The shiso leaves, bottarga, and pink peppercorns add layers of flavor and visual appeal that take your dish to the next level.
Cornish Squid ‘Bolognese’ Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh squid for the Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’?
Absolutely! Look for squid that has a clean, ocean-like smell and a firm texture. Fresh squid should have a slightly translucent appearance and no dark spots. If you’re purchasing whole squid, the skin should be bright and shiny, indicating freshness.
How should I store leftovers of Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’?
Very! If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep the squid tender and flavorful.
Can I freeze Cornish squid ‘Bolognese’?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend separating the sauce from the squid. Freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop and add fresh, cooked squid just before serving.
What if my squid turns out rubbery?
Very! If your squid is rubbery, it’s likely that it was overcooked. Always cook the squid just until it’s tender—this usually takes only a few minutes. Begin checking for doneness after about 2–3 minutes of cooking; squid should be opaque but still moist.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this recipe?
The more the merrier! If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, be mindful of soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a perfect substitute. Also, if anyone is allergic to seafood, it’s best to choose an alternative protein for the sauce.
Irresistible Cornish Squid Bolognese You’ll Want to Make Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the squid.
- Sauté the main body.
- Create the sauce.
- Prepare the dashi.
- Combine and serve.