Seppie in Zimino: A Flavorful Italian Squid and Herb Stew
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Seppie in Zimino, an iconic Italian dish, brings together tender squid, fresh herbs, and a rich, tangy tomato sauce, all simmered to perfection. The earthy flavors of the greens blend harmoniously with the squid, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for family meals or gatherings. Often served with toasted bread to soak up the delicious sauce, Seppie in Zimino is a must-try for anyone looking to explore traditional Italian seafood recipes.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Squid (Seppioline), cleaned | 800g |
| Fresh leafy greens (Erbette), chopped | 700g |
| Tomato passata (pureed tomatoes) | 250g |
| Carrots, peeled and chopped | 100g |
| White onions, chopped | 70g |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 35g |
| Dry white wine | 50g |
| Garlic clove, peeled | 1 |
| Marjoram leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Extra virgin olive oil | q.b. |
| Salt | q.b. |
| White pepper | q.b. |
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by finely chopping the onion and celery. Peel and chop the carrots into small pieces. Clean the greens by removing the tougher stems and cutting the leaves into 3-4 parts, depending on their size.
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Sauté the Base: In a large pot or casserole, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and a whole garlic clove. Sauté these ingredients together for about 7-8 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.
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Add the Greens: Once the vegetables have softened, remove the garlic clove and discard it. Add the prepared leafy greens to the pot. Stir occasionally and let them cook down for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to wilt.
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Cook the Squid: Add the whole squid (seppioline) to the pot, stirring gently to combine everything. Allow the squid to cook for a couple of minutes, ensuring they are coated with the vegetable mixture.
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Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to evaporate slightly. Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the flavors meld together.
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Simmer with Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato passata, adding a pinch of salt and white pepper to taste. Stir everything well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the squid to tenderize and the flavors to develop.
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Final Touches: After 20 minutes, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Stir the dish one final time, ensuring that the squid is tender and fully cooked.
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Serve: Serve the Seppie in Zimino hot, accompanied by slices of toasted bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Perfect Seppie in Zimino
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Choosing the Right Squid: Fresh squid is ideal for this dish, but frozen squid can also be used if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw it completely and clean it well before cooking.
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Vegetable Variations: While traditional recipes call for specific greens like erbette (leafy greens), feel free to use other leafy vegetables such as spinach or chard if erbette is not available in your area.
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Wine Substitutes: If you prefer to skip the wine, you can use vegetable broth or a little lemon juice to add acidity and depth to the dish.
Seppie in Zimino is a perfect example of simple, rustic Italian cooking that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients. This comforting stew is ideal for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine. The squid and herbs meld together to create a deliciously aromatic dish that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy it with your loved ones, and savor the taste of traditional Italian flavors!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Vitamin A | 1200 IU |
| Vitamin C | 25mg |
This dish is an excellent source of lean protein from the squid and provides a good amount of dietary fiber from the greens. It’s low in fat and a great option for a heart-healthy, flavorful meal.
