How to Clean Small Fresh Cuttlefish for Cooking.

Cuttlefish is a delicious and versatile seafood ingredient used in many Italian dishes. However, cleaning fresh cuttlefish can seem intimidating if you've never done it before. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process step by step, allowing you to clean small fresh cuttlefish like a pro in real time.

If you prefer a visual guide, check out this video: How to CLEAN Small Fresh CUTTLEFISH for Cooking in Real Time.

Why Clean Cuttlefish Yourself?

Fresh cuttlefish is often sold whole, meaning it still has its ink sac, bone, and other internal parts intact. Cleaning it yourself ensures:

• Maximum freshness

• No unwanted preservatives

• You can use the ink for special recipes

• You get the best texture and flavor

Now, let's get started with the cleaning process!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Small Fresh Cuttlefish

1. Cut the Cuttlefish Lengthwise with Scissors

Take a pair of sharp kitchen scissors and make a clean cut along the body of the cuttlefish. This will open it up and make it easier to remove the internal parts.

2. Extract the Bone

Inside the body, you'll find a hard, white structure known as the cuttlebone. Gently pull it out and discard it. This part is not edible, but it’s sometimes used as a calcium supplement for pet birds!

3. Remove the Entrails and the Sac with Black Ink

Carefully take out the internal organs, including the ink sac. If you want to use the ink for cooking (like in Pasta al Nero di Seppia), handle it gently to avoid breaking it. If you’re not using it, discard it along with the other entrails.

4. Remove the Tooth from the Center of the Tentacles

Flip the cuttlefish over and locate the small, hard beak in the center of the tentacles. This is the cuttlefish’s "tooth." Squeeze the area around it, and it should pop out easily.

5. Remove the Eyes

Using scissors or a knife, carefully cut out the eyes. Be cautious, as liquid may squirt out when you do this. Discard them after removal.

6. Rinse the Cuttlefish Under Cold Water

(Sciacquate le seppie sotto acqua fredda)
Thoroughly rinse the cleaned cuttlefish under cold running water. This helps remove any remaining residue and ensures a fresh taste when cooked.

7. Remove the Skin with Your Hands

Peel off the thin outer skin using your fingers. The skin comes off easily, revealing the smooth white flesh underneath. While some people cook cuttlefish with the skin on, removing it gives a more delicate texture.

8. Detach the Tentacles

Finally, separate the tentacles from the body if desired. These are delicious when grilled, fried, or used in pasta dishes.

Cooking Small Fresh Cuttlefish

Once your cuttlefish is cleaned, it's ready to be cooked! Here are a few classic Italian recipes to try:

• Grilled Cuttlefish (Seppie alla Griglia): Marinate in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, then grill for a smoky, tender dish.

• Cuttlefish Stew (Seppie in Umido): Slow-cooked in tomato sauce with white wine, garlic, and parsley for a rich, comforting meal.

• Pasta al Nero di Seppia: If you saved the ink, mix it into a seafood pasta for an elegant black sauce full of umami flavor.

Want More Italian Recipes?

If you love Italian cuisine, explore more easy and healthy dinner recipes! Check out our playlists to find the best Italian food ideas:

📌 Watch the full video tutorial here: How to CLEAN Small Fresh CUTTLEFISH for Cooking in Real Time

Enjoy cooking and buon appetito!