How to Clean Squid (Step-by-Step Guide)

A simple step-by-step guide on how to clean whole squid.

Course Ingredient

Cuisine Filipino

Diet Gluten Free

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings

Calories 139kcal

Cost $4-$6

Separate the head from the body: Hold the body in one hand and the head just above the eyes with the other. Gently pull them apart while twisting slightly.
Remove the ink sac (optional): If you want to save the ink, carefully remove the small dark sac attached to the innards and place it in a bowl.
Remove the beak: Squeeze the center of the tentacles until the beak comes out. Pull it out with your fingers or cut it away with a knife.
Cut the tentacles: Cut the tentacles just below the eyes so they stay attached together. Discard the head and innards.
Remove the cuttlebone: Pull out the long clear strip inside the body. This is the cuttlebone, a thin piece of cartilage.
Empty the body: Remove anything left inside the body by gently squeezing it or using your fingers.
Remove the skin (optional): Peel away the thin purple skin from the body if you prefer a cleaner look.
Remove the fins (optional): Pull the fins away from the body if you want to separate them.
Rinse the squid: Rinse the bodies and tentacles well under cold running water.