Cooking Lab - Ika Meshi イカめし烏賊飯 (Stuffed Squid w Rice)

イカ飯 ー 家庭でも簡單! イカの高級料理が味わえます。

Ika Meshi is a simple Japanese dish on which a whole squid is stuffed with seasoned rice and grilled.

This is the Version 2 of the stuffed calamari recipe from the previous entry.

(c) GMV - Got My Vote!' *\(^o^)/*

A lighter and refreshing Springtime entreé dish.

In this version, my aim is tryjng to retain the natural flavor of the calamari without overpowering it with heavy condiments.

Pretty and a clever alternative huh?

Beautiful fresh wild-caught calamari. Product of Australia. $17.00/kg.

(Tip: Buy the small medium size - it will be more tender and delicate in taste and texture.)

**Please follow the preparation steps from 1-8 of the previous Stuffed Calamari Cooking Lab recipe.**

The inspiration is Japanese, the condiment French-influenced and the stuffing is almost Italian in flavor. Regardless, the dish worked well regardless of the origin. 

Grill the stuffed calamari until they are lovely and golden. Cute juicy little calamari tubes aren't they?

Plating Up:

1. To serve, slice the stuffed tubes into 3-4 slices depending on the size and preference. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper.

2. Serve drizzled tare dressing (balsamic glaze mixed with French vinegar) generously with a wedge of lemon to the side.

3. Garnish with baby rocket and cherry tomatoes.

This is an absolute winner!

Truly delectable flavor all wrapped in tender soft calamari jacket.