How to choose squid? Keep these purchasing points in mind before buying!

There are 30 types of squid, 10 of which are found in China. They have a unique taste and excellent flavor. Common species include rocket squid, Japanese squid and red squid. Breeding methods include cement floor, seine net, seawater and freshwater culture. When purchasing, observe the appearance, smell, and touch to determine the size. Squid is high in protein and low in fat. It can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen and can be eaten in a variety of ways.

 

The body of the squid is slender, with ten tentacles surrounding the mouth, eight of which are longer and the other two are shorter. It has a vestigial inner shell and a pair of triangular or round fins. There are 30 species of squid in the genus, and there are 10 species in China.

 

Squid has a unique taste and excellent flavor. It can be cooked in multiple ways and is deeply loved by consumers. This guide lists several common squid categories and farming methods to help you better choose high-quality squid!

 

一, Common classifications of squid

1. Classification of common varieties

(1) Rocket Squid

The rocket squid has a smooth appearance without many wrinkles on the surface, and its legs are long, generally reaching more than 1.5 meters. Rocket squid tastes plump and sweet, the meat is soft and strong, crispy and delicious. The moment your teeth touch the meat, you will be overwhelmed by its crispness and tenderness.

 

(2) Japanese squid

Compared with other large squid species, the meat of Japanese squid is relatively delicate, which allows it to be eaten directly without complicated processing, such as acid removal. Because of its delicate texture and delicious taste, it is often used to make dishes such as sashimi or sushi.

 

3) Equator squid

American equator squid is a delicious seafood ingredient. The meat is fresh and tender, the texture is soft and chewy, and the taste is delicious. It is deeply loved by diners. Due to the meaty characteristics of the American equator squid, it is often used to make various dishes, such as sashimi, sushi, etc., which can fully demonstrate its delicious taste.

 

2. Breeding methods

(1) Cement floor farming

The main feature of squid farming on cement floors is its controllability. By building cement ponds, people can more precisely control the breeding environment. The squid may not be able to obtain the rich natural food and minerals as in the natural environment, which may cause the meat quality and taste to be different from wild squid.

 

(2) Seine breeding

The characteristic of squid culture in seine nets is that it makes full use of the natural environment. The breeding areas are selected in suitable sea areas so that the squid can grow in a close to natural environment, which helps them obtain rich natural food and minerals, thereby maintaining their original taste and nutritional value.

 

(3) Marine culture

Mariculture squid is carried out under seawater conditions close to the natural environment, which allows the squid to fully absorb minerals and trace elements in the seawater, which is beneficial to its healthy growth. Under this farming method, squid grow relatively quickly and have rich meat.

 

(4) Freshwater aquaculture

The main feature of freshwater cultured squid is that its culture environment is artificially controlled fresh water, which requires more water quality treatment and adjustment work than marine culture. The taste of freshwater cultured squid can also reach a certain level through reasonable breeding technology and feed formula.

 

二,Buying Tips

1. Purchase skills

Fresh squid should have smooth and translucent skin, even color, and a complete body without any defects or damage. Avoid squid with skin that is too white or too red, as this may have been bleached.

 

2. Smell

Fresh squid should have a fresh ocean flavor. If you smell a pungent odor or the smell of disinfectant, it is likely that the squid has been chemically treated and should be avoided.

 

3. Touch judgment

Fresh squid should be springy to the touch, with firm flesh. If the body of the squid feels soft and inelastic, it may be that the squid has been stored for too long, and the taste and quality will be reduced.

 

4. Pay attention to size

Generally speaking, quality squid is neither too big nor too small, and medium-sized squid tends to be of better quality. Squid that are too large may have been specially treated and are suspected of being "chemical squid".

 

3. Key knowledge

1. Nutritional value of squid

Protein: The protein content of squid is quite high, with about 18 grams of protein per 100 grams of squid; low fat and low calories: Compared with other meats, squid has a lower fat content.

2. How to store squid

Refrigerated storage: For fresh squid, if you plan to eat it in the short term, you can refrigerate it in ice water to keep it fresh. Frozen storage: If you want to store fresh squid for a long time, you should put it in the refrigerator freezer.

3. How to eat squid

Fried squid rings: Remove the internal organs from the squid, wash and cut into rings, fry until golden brown, and serve on a plate. The squid can also be fried, such as spicy fried shredded squid, or stewed with other ingredients.