Kalamarakia Yemista me Aginares: Artichoke-Stuffed Squid (Calamari)

In Greek: καλαμαράκια γεμιστά με αγκινάρες, say: kah-lah-mah-RAHK-yah yeh-mee-STAH meh ah-gkee-NAH-res

Artichoke hearts, rice, and a fabulous range of herbs make up the stuffing for small squid (calamari). Served with a lovely garlicky skorthalia on the side, crisp salad, and plenty of Greek olives, it makes a delightful meal.



Ingredients:

* 3 to 3 1/2 pounds of small squid (calamari), cleaned (* see below)
* 2/3 pounds of artichoke hearts, finely chopped
* 1 pound of leeks (white stem only), finely chopped
* 6 green onions, finely chopped
* 3/4 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
* 1 1/2 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill
* 1 1/2 tablespoon of capers, rinsed and drained
* 1 1/2 tablespoon of long-grain rice
* juice of 1 1/2 lemons
* 3 medium tomatoes, peeled, finely chopped
* 1 1/2 cup of olive oil
* 2/3 cup of dry white wine or dry (white) vermouth
* 1 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
* 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

Preparation:

Prepare squid, leaving tentacles attached to the tubes, and set aside:

Using 3/4 cup of the olive oil, sauté artichoke hearts, leeks, green onion, parsley, dill, and capers until nicely softened. Add rice, lemon juice, tomatoes, and a few tablespoons of the wine (or vermouth). Bring to a boil and cook until liquids reduce and the mixture is fairly dry.

With a teaspoon, stuff the calamari tubes and place in a pot with the remaining 3/4 cup of olive oil. Bring to a boil, add remaining wine, and reduce heat. Simmer until calamari are fork tender (about 30 to 45 minutes).

Serve lukewarm or at room temperature.

Yield: serves 6