Braised Squid with Chorizo & Mojo Sauce
Rich, comforting and packed with Mediterranean flavour, this Braised Squid with Chorizo & Mojo Sauce transforms simple ingredients into an impressive seafood dish. Tender slow-cooked squid is paired with smoky chorizo, hearty chickpeas and a vibrant parsley mojo sauce that brings freshness to every bite.
Perfect for cooler evenings or weekend entertaining, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavour with minimal hands-on preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Mediterranean flavours
- Tender slow-cooked squid
- Smoky Spanish-style chorizo
- Protein-packed chickpeas
- Make-ahead friendly
- Perfect for entertaining
- Freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Braised Squid
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chorizo sausages, thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 400g can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 600g squid tubes, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
For the Mojo Sauce
- 1 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp sherry vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground cumin
To Serve
- Fresh parsley sprigs
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Crusty bread
What Is Mojo Sauce?
Mojo is a traditional sauce popular in Spanish and Canary Islands cuisine.
This fresh herb version combines:
- Parsley
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Cumin
The result is a bright, zesty sauce that perfectly balances the rich flavours of the braised seafood and chorizo.
Why Slow Cooking Works for Squid
Squid can be cooked in two ways:
- Very quickly (1–2 minutes)
- Slowly over several hours
Slow braising allows the squid to become exceptionally tender while absorbing the flavours of the tomato, paprika and stock.
The result is a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that works beautifully in stews and casseroles.
How to Make Braised Squid with Chorizo
Step 1: Brown the Chorizo
Heat olive oil in a frying pan.
Cook the sliced chorizo until golden and lightly crisp.
Set aside.
Step 2: Build the Base
Cook the onion until soft and golden.
Add smoked paprika and cook briefly to release its aroma.
Stir through:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Vegetable stock
- Bay leaves
Step 3: Slow Cook
Transfer the sauce mixture to a slow cooker.
Add:
- Squid
- Chorizo
- Chickpeas
Cook until the squid becomes tender and infused with flavour.
Step 4: Make the Mojo Sauce
Blend:
- Parsley
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Cumin
until smooth.
Season to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the squid mixture into bowls.
Drizzle generously with mojo sauce and garnish with parsley.
Serve immediately.
Nutritional Benefits
Squid
Squid is an excellent source of:
- Lean protein
- Vitamin B12
- Selenium
- Zinc
Chickpeas
Chickpeas contribute:
- Fibre
- Plant-based protein
- Iron
- Complex carbohydrates
Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil provides:
- Heart-healthy fats
- Antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory compounds
Parsley
Parsley adds:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Fresh herbal flavour
Tips for the Best Results
Use Good Quality Chorizo
Spanish-style chorizo provides the best flavour and smokiness.
Don’t Rush the Cooking
Slow cooking is key to achieving tender squid.
Taste Before Serving
Adjust seasoning at the end as chorizo can vary in saltiness.
Serve with Bread
Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Chargrilled sourdough
- Steamed rice
- Roasted potatoes
- Green salad
- Grilled vegetables
For entertaining, serve family-style in a large bowl with extra mojo sauce on the side.
Variations
Add More Seafood
Include:
- Prawns
- Mussels
- White fish
- Octopus
Increase the Heat
Add:
- Chilli flakes
- Fresh chilli
- Harissa paste
Make It More Rustic
Add:
- Roasted capsicum
- Carrots
- Celery
Swap the Legumes
Replace chickpeas with:
- Butter beans
- Cannellini beans
- Lentils
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop until heated through.
Add fresh mojo sauce before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 813
- Protein: 53g
- Fat: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
A hearty, protein-rich meal ideal for sharing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen squid?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Simmer gently in a covered Dutch oven or heavy pot for approximately 1½–2 hours until tender.
What does squid taste like?
Squid has a mild, slightly sweet seafood flavour that absorbs surrounding seasonings exceptionally well.
Is mojo sauce spicy?
No. This parsley-based version is fresh and herbaceous rather than spicy.
Final Thoughts
This Braised Squid with Chorizo & Mojo Sauce is a fantastic example of how simple Mediterranean ingredients can create deep, satisfying flavour. The tender squid, smoky chorizo and bright parsley sauce come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
Serve it with crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon for a memorable seafood meal packed with warmth and character