Squid in Sauce

Canarian Recipes: Potas en salsa

Squid in sauce is a traditional dish from Canary Island cuisine, particularly from Tenerife. It is a simple yet flavourful stew, perfect for serving with ‘papas arrugadas’ (wrinkled potatoes).

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of cleaned squid (cut into pieces or rings)
  • 1 onion
  • 1 green pepper
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tomato
  • 1 glass of white wine
  • Olive oil
  • Sweet paprika
  • Black pepper
  • Cumin
  • Bay leaves
  • Thyme
  • 2-3 cloves
  • A splash of vinegar
  • Salt
  • Water

Method

  1. Basic Sofrito
    Chop the onion, green pepper, tomato, and garlic. Sauté them in olive oil until they are well softened.

  2. Add Spices
    Stir in the paprika, black pepper, cumin, and cloves. Quickly mix to prevent burning.

  3. Add the Squid
    Incorporate the chopped squid and mix well with the sofrito.

  4. Liquids and Aromatics
    Pour in the white wine, a splash of vinegar, and enough water to cover. Add bay leaves and thyme.

  5. Cooking
    Cook over medium heat until the squid is tender (about 30-40 minutes). The sauce should thicken.
    Continue cooking until the squid is tender and the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

  6. How to Serve
    With papas arrugadas (the most typical in the Canary Islands)
    Or even with bread for dipping.

Canarian Tips
Cumin and cloves are key for authentic flavour.
A touch of vinegar balances the stew.
You can add potatoes directly to the stew for a more complete dish.