How to Get Squid Ink

Squid ink is used around the world in many different types of cooking. It can be used to make soups, marinades and even desserts. Although many grocery stores sell canned or bottled squid ink, removing the ink from the squid yourself can be an educational and even entertaining process. A few simple tools and a little patience are all that is needed to get ink from a squid.

Items Needed

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  Squid

  
  


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  Large bowl

  
  


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  Knife

  
  


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  Contain with lid

  
  


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  Apron

  
  


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  Gloves

  
  

Step 1: Purchase a squid from your local grocery store or fish market. A large squid will produce more ink, but a small squid will produce ink that has a better flavor.

Step 2: Locate the tentacles beneath the eyes of the squid. The tentacles will resemble several tube-like arms.

Step 3: Use a knife to cut and remove the tentacles.

Step 4: Find the squid's ink deposits. These are located on the back of the head and behind the eyes of the squid. You do not need to remove the eyes to find them.

Step 5: Use a knife to make a slit in each ink deposit. Be careful not to cut or puncture the eyes, as this will contaminate the ink. You may want to wear an apron and gloves for this step. Squid ink can stain your clothes and hands.

Step 6: Pour the squid ink into a container. Place a lid on the container and store the squid in the refrigerator. The squid ink can be stored for up to three months.

Step 7: Use the rest of the squid for another recipe. Many people like to cut the tentacles into rings, flour and fry them to make calamari.