Tuga Pops − Friday, September 2, 2016, 10 Years ago in Seafood Recipes
3 out of 5 with 104 ratings

Portuguese Squid Stew Recipe: Easy 45-Minute Seafood Dinner

Warm up with this cozy, one-pot Portuguese squid stew! Tender calamari meets hearty potatoes in a savory wine sauce. Ready in 45 minutes—dive into a bowl tonight!
45 min 6 servings Easy Prep time 10 min Cooking Time 35 min
 

You’ll Love This Portuguese Squid Stew Recipe: Easy 45-Minute Seafood Dinner

Bring the vibrant flavors of the coast to your kitchen with this 45-minute traditional Portuguese seafood stew with potatoes. This authentic lulas guisadas requires minimal prep and delivers massive flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot Azorean-style squid and tomato dinner is the ultimate Portuguese squid stew recipe that guarantees tender seafood in a rich, savory broth.


 

The Story of Portuguese Squid Stew Recipe: Easy 45-Minute Seafood Dinner

Portuguese squid stew, historically known as Caldeirada de Lulas, reflects the deeply rooted maritime culture of Portugal. For centuries, coastal fishing communities relied heavily on the daily ocean catch to create simple, satisfying meals. They combined fresh squid with available staples like tomatoes, onions, and olive oil to sustain hardworking fishermen.

Over time, this rustic dish evolved from a basic seaside necessity into a beloved comfort food across the entire nation. The gentle simmering technique allows the ocean flavors to meld beautifully with the aromatic wine broth. Today, it stands proud as a classic representation of authentic Iberian culinary heritage.

To complete this traditional meal, consider serving the stew alongside some carefully chosen side dishes. A plate of crusty artisan bread is absolutely essential for soaking up every drop of the rich tomato broth. You can also include a light, crisp green salad tossed in a simple red wine vinaigrette.

For a more substantial feast, serve the tender squid over a bed of fluffy white rice or garlic-infused couscous. Roasted green vegetables like asparagus or broccolini will also provide a beautiful color contrast on the dinner plate. These additions balance the savory depth of the seafood without overpowering its delicate natural taste.

Ingredients

4 lbs (1.8 kg) of squid1 cup (240 ml) of olive oil2 onions, chopped2 garlic cloves, chopped1 tablespoon (15 ml) of parsley1 teaspoon (5 ml) of paprika1 lb (450 g) of tomatoes, chopped1 teaspoon (5 ml) of tomato paste1/2 cup (120 ml) of red or white wine1 lb (450 g) of potatoes1 cup (240 ml) of waterSalt and pepper (to taste)

Equipment:

1 Portuguese ceramic cooking pot or saucepanCutting boardChef knifeMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden stirring spoon

Directions

  1. Wash and slice the squid properly to remove the meat.
  2. In the ceramic pot (or saucepan), add the onion, garlic, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of olive oil, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste and cook on medium heat.
  3. Once the onions begin to brown add the squid and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Now add in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red or white wine, and the rest of the olive oil to the saucepan and stir it well.
  5. De-skin the potatoes and slice them into halves and add them to the saucepan along with a cup (240 ml) of water.
  6. Cover the pan and let it cook until the potatoes are done, stirring occasionally about 15 to 20 minutes.
  7. Once done, serve in bowls.


Recommended Drink Pairings: 

A crisp Portuguese Vinho Verde is the ultimate match, cutting through the rich olive oil and elevating the tender squid perfectly. An unoaked Alvarinho also works wonders by mirroring the bright tomato acidity. If you prefer red, try a chilled Portuguese Baga. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling lemon water beautifully complements the rustic ocean flavors of this incredible homestyle dinner stew.


Adapted from a Recipe by: easyportugueserecipes.com

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
840 kcal
Fat
58 g
Carbs
32 g
Protein
48 g

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Comments (4)

s pereira
s pereira
i know there different ways to make this dish however it should also contain green peppers diced potatoes should be diced if you are useing wine red or white the squid will make its own juice i have never added water and i have been makeing this dish since i was 15 am now in my 80s do the math not saying what you printed is wrong just a different take on the subject.
3 Years ago, Friday, June 2, 2023

Shaaron Kirkwood
Shaaron Kirkwood
I love this recipe.
4 Years ago, Tuesday, October 11, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Great to hear Shaaron, thank you for the feedback.
4 Years ago, Tuesday, October 11, 2022

s pereira
s pereira
you should add one cup of rice much better and dice the potatoes
4 Years ago, Monday, March 7, 2022

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
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