Seafood is a delicacy that is enjoyed all around the world and has a variety of dishes that cater to different palates. Squid is an exotic seafood that many people avoid due to its chewy texture and not knowing how to cook it properly.
However, a squid filled with a spicy traahana and olive stuffing is a treat that one cannot miss out on.
The History of Trahana
Trahana is a traditional Greek dish made from a mixture of fermented milk and wheat. This mixture is dried and then crumbled into small pieces that can be used in soups and stews.
While trahana is primarily a Greek dish, it has become extremely popular throughout the Middle East and parts of Europe.
The Perfect Filling for Squid
Combining spicy traahana with olives creates a unique combination of flavors that go perfectly with the mild taste of squid. The tangy flavor of olives mixes wonderfully with the spicy traahana to create a stuffing that is simply delectable.
How to Prepare Spicy Trahana and Olive Stuffing for the Squid
The filling for the squid can be prepared in just a few simple steps. All you need is:.
- 1 ½ cups of traahana
- 1 ½ cups of water
- ½ cup of chopped olives
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon of salt
To begin, first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Place the traahana in a bowl and pour 1 ½ cups of water over it. Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This will help to soften the traahana and make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
Next, add the chopped olives, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt to the traahana mixture. Mix everything together, making sure there are no clumps of the traahana in the filling.
Preparing the Squid
Preparing the squid can be a little tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s easy. Here’s what you’ll need:.
- 4 large squid
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
To begin, first, clean the squid thoroughly. Cut off the tentacles and set them aside. Rinse the inside of the body and discard any innards. Rinse the tentacles and chop them into small pieces.
Next, in a bowl, mix the chopped tentacles, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper together. Stuff the squid bodies with the traahana and olive filling, making sure not to overstuff them. Secure the filling with toothpicks or skewers.
Finally, place the stuffed squid in a baking dish and pour the tentacle mixture over them, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the squid is cooked through and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
The squid filled with spicy traahana and olives makes for an excellent appetizer or main course. The dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
You can also drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the squid before serving to enhance its flavor.
Conclusion
The squid filled with spicy traahana and olives is a dish that you must try. This unique combination of flavors is sure to please your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling and add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.