Cuttlefish

This relation of the squid and octopus includes specimens ranging in size from 3–50 cm (1¼–20 inches) long. Like the squid, cuttlefish contain ink sacs that may be used in cooking. They have 10 large tentacles and an internal shell. To prepare, cut off the head and tentacles, then slit down one side to remove the guts and ink sac. Cut away the hard cuttleshell, cut the tentacles off the head, then discard the head. Cuttlefish can be fried briefly, steamed or barbecued. They are sold fresh, frozen or dried.