Pashtun-style Stuffed Squid

Ingredients

In Pashtun cuisine, the original dish "Jadranske lignje na padelu" is adapted to incorporate Pashtun flavors and cooking techniques. The stuffing for the squid is prepared using Pashtun spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which infuse the dish with a distinct Pashtun taste. Additionally, traditional Pashtun ingredients like yogurt and ghee are used to enhance the flavors and add richness to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Jadranske lignje na padelu, so you can check it out.

• 4 medium-sized squid 4 medium-sized squid
• 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ghee 2 tablespoons ghee
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 cup (75g) breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (75g) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste Black pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Clean the squid thoroughly, removing the innards and tentacles. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
2. 2.
   In a pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and red chili powder to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion and garlic mixture.
4. 4.
   In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, yogurt, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. 5.
   Stuff each squid with the prepared mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
6. 6.
   Heat a grill or a pan over medium-high heat. Brush the squid with ghee and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the squid is cooked through and golden brown.
7. 7.
   Serve the Pashtun-style Stuffed Squid hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Squid — Ensure that the squid is cleaned thoroughly, removing any remaining innards and the transparent cartilage. This will ensure a pleasant texture and taste.
• Ghee — If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute ghee with vegetable oil or clarified butter.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the squid from becoming tough, avoid overcooking. Cook it just until it turns opaque and tender.
• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some lemon juice over the cooked squid before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Serve the Pashtun-style Stuffed Squid with a side of mint chutney for a refreshing and tangy accompaniment.
• If you don't have access to fresh squid, you can use frozen squid that has been thawed.

Serving advice

Serve the Pashtun-style Stuffed Squid as a main course dish accompanied by steamed basmati rice or naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed squid on a platter, placing them side by side. Drizzle a little ghee over the top and sprinkle some chopped cilantro for an attractive presentation. Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side.