The Spruce Eats: What Is Calamari? Calamari, or squid, is the main ingredient in the popular restaurant appetizer called of what is calamari same name. Peggy Trowbridge Filippone is a writer who develops approachable recipes for home cooks. Her recipes range from Grandma’s favorites to the latest food trends.

In many Asian countries such as China, Thailand, Japan, and Taiwan, squid is grilled whole and sold at food stalls and stands. You can find more heavily spiced squid in stir-fries, and rice and noodle dishes in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine. More than 300 species of squid live in the world’s oceans, but fewer than a dozen make up nearly the entire global market for culinary use. Squid lends itself to hot and fast cooking methods such as grilling, broiling, sautéing, and deep-frying. It can also be eaten raw, such as in sushi. Or try a low and slow braise in white wine and garlic or tomato sauce or curry.