Tentacle clusters trimmed at the base with the suction cups left intact, frozen within an hour of the catch so the flesh stays tight rather than turning soft.

What It Is

The tentacle crown of Loligo squid, cut cleanly below the head and trimmed of the eyes and beak. The suction cups are left on, which is where the bite comes from, and the pale pink skin is kept for the sweetness it holds.

Where It Comes From

Ocean caught and flash-frozen at sea rather than after landing. That single step is what separates a tentacle that snaps from one that turns to rubber in the pan.

Specifications

State on Arrival

Frozen in a firm block. Skin pale pink-white with no yellowing, cups complete, no loose fragments in the bag.

Storage and Thawing

• Thaw in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours, in a covered bowl.
• Rinse under cold water and dry thoroughly; wet tentacles steam instead of charring.
• Do not refreeze after thawing and cook within 24 hours.
• Separate the clusters while still half frozen if you only need a few.

Shelf Life and Delivery

12 months from the production date on the bag. Shipped in an insulated liner with gel packs, 2 to 4 business days after dispatch. A soft or slimy bag has thawed in transit and should not be used.

How to Cook It

• Grilled toss with chilli, garlic and oil, then over high heat for 3 minutes until the edges caramelise.
• Stir-fried in a very hot wok for 2 minutes with garlic, ginger and spring onion.
• Deep-fried dusted with cornflour at 180 C for 90 seconds for a crackling shell.
• Hot pot dropped in for the last 40 seconds at the table.

Squid goes from tender to tough in well under a minute, so have every other component plated and waiting before the tentacles hit the heat.

Allergen Information

Contains molluscs. Packed in a facility that also handles fish and crustacean shellfish.