git add

Skip to main content

Black Rice with Squid

This striking black rice with squid is a sophisticated high-protein dish that brings the bold flavours of the Spanish coast to your kitchen. The deep, savoury profile is achieved by slow-cooking the rice with professional techniques, allowing it to absorb a rich fish stock and aromatic sofrito. Using squid ink adds a dramatic colour and a subtle saltiness of the sea, making it an impressive centrepiece for any dinner party or weekend meal.

Ideal for those seeking a nutritious yet comforting seafood dinner, this recipe relies on quality ingredients like fresh squid and a traditional picada to finish. The combination of tender squid and perfectly textured paella rice creates a satisfying balance of textures. Serve it simply with a wedge of lemon and a dollop of creamy garlic aioli for a truly authentic Mediterranean experience that is both healthy and filling.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Black Rice with Squid

  • 450g 140g fresh squid, cleaned

  • 1925ml fish stock

  • 80ml olive oil

  • 120ml sofrito

  • 725ml paella rice

  • 20g squid ink (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons picada

If the squid has tentacles, pull them away from the body. Cut the squid into 1-inch strips. Then cut into 1-inch cubes. Pour the fish stock into a saucepan, cover, and bring to a simmer. Put a large pan over high heat and add the oil. Add the squid. Fry for 2 minutes, until golden in places. Add the sofrito and continue to cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add a teaspoon of water if the sofrito starts to stick to the bottom of the pan. Add the rice, stirring it into the squid. Fry for 10 minutes, stirring often. Turn the heat to high and add a ladle of stock, stirring continuously. Once the stock has been absorbed, add another ladle and repeat until 5 minutes have passed. Dissolve the squid ink in a little of the remaining stock. Add this to the rice, and then continue adding the rest of the stock. Cook the rice for another 12 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the picada and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is just tender to the bite. Season with salt, then serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

About the author

Author image

UK recipe editors

About the reviewerView full bio

Author image

UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.