Patagonian longfin squid, Doryteuthis gahi

Description

The Patagonian longfin squid (Doryteuthis gahi) is a relatively small squid typically attaining 13 – 17 cm mantle length. It is distributed along the Patagonian Shelf of the Southwest Atlantic and in the Southeast Pacific. Patagonian squid have an annual life cycle comprising two seasonal cohorts.

Origin

Woolworths sources Patagonian squid from the Falkland Islands Patagonian longfin squid trawl fishery. The fishery consists of 16 trawlers operating under licenses issued by the Falkland Islands Fisheries Department.

Attributes

The flesh of Patagonian is soft but firm, with a delicate texture. It has a mild seafood taste with some sweetness. Patagonian squid contains several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B-12, potassium, iron, phosphorous and copper.

Cooking

Patagonian squid needs to be cooked either hot-and-fast or low-and-slow to achieve that perfectly tender, springy-but-not-chewy texture. To sear Patagonian squid, slice the tubes or leave them whole, season with salt and pepper, sear the squid over the highest possible heat for two or three minutes. Squid can also be baked, boiled, braised and grilled.

Sustainability

The Falkland Islands Patagonian longfin squid trawl fishery is one of the best managed fisheries in the world. It is an area restricted fishery and in-season monitoring allow the possibility of reducing effort in years with low recruitment. Seal exclusion devices are mandatory in the fishery and reduce bycatch and the fishery has 100% observer coverage.