Cuttlefish in a Pot

Cuttlefish in a pot combines tender cuttlefish simmered in a rich, savory broth. This stew blends the briny flavor of the sea with comforting, earthy notes and a touch of white wine, creating a warm and satisfying dish.

Cuttlefish in a Pot

Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med

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Reasons to make this recipe

  • Cuttlefish, squid, and octopus are perfect if you want to avoid the fishy flavor of fish and seafood but still want to introduce healthy seafood and fish dishes into your diet.
  • It is a fulfilling dish. It combines tender seafood with a savory sauce that combines onions, pine nuts, and white wine in a good combination of healthy nutrients.
  • It is a very straightforward recipe.
  • Additionally, cuttlefish is a nutritious seafood choice, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

What is this recipe?

Honestly, my grandmother used to make it. She did not enjoy cooking, so it is pretty straightforward. 

The onions and white wine combine in a slightly sweet flavor that contributed to developing a liking for seafood in me when I was a kid.

(The alcohol is consumed during the cooking process)

Where does it come from?

It comes from Valencia autonomous community (kind of a state) in Spain. 

Or, as it used to be called centuries ago: “The Kingdom of Valencia”

Ingredients

Cuttlefish Resemblance

Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med

  • 750g of cuttlefish, about 1.65 lbs
  • Two tablespoons of olive oil
  • Two onions
  • One teaspoon of paprika
  • One bay leaf
  • 40 g or about 1.4 ounces of pine nuts
  • A small glass of white wine
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Onions Resemblance

Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med

Instructions

  1. Clean and dice the cuttlefish in bite-sized portions (you can also use small squid). 
  2. Peel and cut the onion into lean (julienne) strips. 
  3. Peel, deseed and chop the tomatoes finely.
  4. Fry the onion in a pot with two tablespoons of olive oil. 
  5. Add the cuttlefish, stir, and sauté for a few minutes. 
  6. Add the tomatoes, paprika, bay leaf, and sauté over medium heat.
  7. Add the crushed pine nuts and wine, salt and pepper, and stir slowly and steadily to mix all the ingredients. 
  8. Cook over low heat until you see the sauce thicken a bit. Serve hot.

Suggestions for Serving

You can serve this dish in a small tapa portion on cold days to warm up before the main course. 

If you need a more fulfilling meal, you can add some roasted potatoes or rice.

Cuttlefish Resemblance

Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med

Tips and ideas

  • You can use cuttlefish, small squid (like the ones used for calamari recipes), or octopus.
  • If you prefer octopus, bear in mind to braise it first for about 45 minutes to make it soft enough for eating.
  • Do not overcook the octopus because it can become chewy. So, I recommend you stick to cuttlefish or squid for this recipe.

White Wine Resemblance

Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med

Cuttlefish in a Pot FAQ

1. How do you tenderize cuttlefish for the stew?
Cook it slowly over low heat. Simmering in the stew for 30-40 minutes ensures the cuttlefish becomes tender without turning rubbery.

2. Can I use frozen cuttlefish?
Yes, frozen cuttlefish works well. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the stew for the best texture.

3. What seasonings work best with cuttlefish stew?
Garlic, onions, tomatoes, white wine, and herbs like parsley enhance the cuttlefish’s flavor. A pinch of chili flakes can add a subtle heat.

4. Can I add other seafood to the stew?
Absolutely. Clams, mussels, or shrimp make great additions, adding variety to the stew’s flavor and texture.

5. How do you know when cuttlefish is cooked?
Cuttlefish turns opaque and becomes tender when cooked. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery.

6. Can I add potatoes?

Absolutely, but I provided this lighter recipe because it is lower in calories, and my grandma made it this way. 
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well during cooking and absorb the stew’s flavors without becoming mushy.

7. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Yes, in fact, I recommend you do. The flavors develop even more when prepared a day ahead. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the cuttlefish.

8. What do you serve with cuttlefish stew?
Serve it with crusty bread for soaking up the rich broth, or over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Again, as with the potatoes, be mindful that you will increase the calorie count. 

9. How do you store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop.

10. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
You can freeze the stew, but the cuttlefish may become slightly rubbery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after refrigeration.

Cuttlefish in a Pot Recipe

Alberto Conde
Cuttlefish in a pot combines tender cuttlefish simmered in a rich, savory broth. This stew melds the briny flavor of the sea with comforting, earthy notes and a touch of white wine, creating a warm and satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 269 kcal

Hover the mouse over number of servings to get your desired amount.

Ingredients
 
 

Instructions
 

  • Clean and dice the cuttlefish in bite-sized portions (you can also use small squid).
  • Peel and cut the onion into lean (julienne) strips.
  • Peel, deseed and chop the tomatoes finely.
  • Fry the onion in a pot with two tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Add the cuttlefish, stir, and sauté for a few minutes.
  • Add the tomatoes, paprika, bay leaf, and sauté over medium heat.
  • Add the crushed pine nuts, wine, salt, and pepper, and stir slowly and steadily to mix all the ingredients.
  • Cook over low heat until you see the sauce thicken a bit. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 269kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 33gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 770mgPotassium: 1047mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1614IUVitamin C: 27mgCalcium: 198mgIron: 12mg
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