Giant Squid Caught in Greece

A fish tavern owner in Evia, Greece caught a giant squid (kalamari) recently, which weighs 15 kg (33 lbs) a rare size for Greek waters.

According to a report in the local site evima.gr, residents, and visitors to the beach of Platana in Kymi were surprised when they saw Antonis Koutelos bringing the 15 kg squid ashore.

The owner of one of the best fish taverns in Kymi told evima.gr: “These types of squid come out from time to time in the shallows. A few days ago this one was on Platana beach and I managed to catch it there. It weighs 15 kg.”

The size of squid in the Mediterranean can vary depending on the species. There are over 500 species of squid found in the world’s oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea is home to many of them.

Some of the smaller squid species in the Mediterranean, such as the loligo vulgaris, or common squid, typically only grow to be around 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in mantle length (mantle length is the measurement of the squid’s body, not including its tentacles or arms).

Larger species, such as the Todarodes sagittatus, or European flying squid, can grow up to 1 meter (3.3 ft) in mantle length.

The size of the calamari you see on restaurant menus will typically be on the smaller side, as these tend to be more tender and flavorful.

Of course Mediterranean squids are no comparison in size to the giant squids in the word oceans. Giant squid (Architeuthis dux) can grow to be truly enormous, with females reaching up to 43 feet (13 meters) in length, including their two long tentacles. Males are smaller, reaching up to 33 feet (10 meters) long.

Squid is a popular seafood delicacy in Greece

Squid, called “kalamari” (καλαμάρι) in Greek, is a very popular seafood delicacy in Greece. It has been a staple of the Greek diet for centuries, dating back to the Ancient Greeks who were skilled sailors and took advantage of the Mediterranean Sea’s abundance of seafood. Squids are plentiful in the Aegean Sea and the Ionian Sea, which border Greece.

Greece has a long coastline and a strong fishing tradition, making fresh squid readily available throughout the country.

Squid has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a pleasingly chewy texture. It can be prepared in many ways, making it a versatile ingredient for Greek cuisine.

It is a good source of lean protein and essential nutrients, making it an affordable and nutritious addition to the Greek diet.

The most popular way squid is prepared in Greece is fried calamari (Καλαμαράκια τηγανιτά). The squid is dredged in flour and egg, then fried until crispy. It’s typically served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of tzatziki.

Another popular preparation is grilled squid. The squid is simply seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt and pepper, then grilled over hot coals. This method results in a more tender and flavorful dish.