SQUID INK
By Pamela Lewy
Squid ink is a deep black substance
extracted from the ink sack of an ocean squid; a sea dweller that is also known as Calamari. The Cuttlefish,
which also has ink sacks, is another species living in the ocean that is similar and related to the Squid.
Both species use their ink as a means to flee predators. When threatened, squid will release this dark
cloudy substance in hopes of intimidating the oncoming danger.
The ink from squid is used as a food coloring
and flavoring, providing an rich ebony color and a salty tasting flavor to foods such as pasta or rice. It can
also be served as a condiment, first being dried in an oven, crumbled into tiny particles, seasoned with salt
and then used on a variety of foods. Squid ink can be extracted from fresh squid or it is packaged and available
in some Italian food stores.
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