HOW TO SCORE A SQUID

A squid game you'll always win.

Just add salt and pepper.

How to Score Squid Like a Pro (Without Butchering It)

Master precision prep with a 15cm Utility Knife

Scoring squid isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a smart technique that enhances tenderness, boosts flavour absorption, and prevents the dreaded curl-up when cooking. But here’s the thing: it takes more than enthusiasm to do it well. It takes precision, control, and the right blade. Enter the unsung kitchen hero: the 15cm / 6in Utility Knife.

This isn’t your average sidekick. Smaller than a chef’s knife but sharper than your average paring blade, the Utility Knife is a powerhouse of precision—smart, slick, and made for intricate prep like squid scoring.

Step 1: Detach the Wings

Pro Tip: Cut the “wings” from the tube.

First things first—remove the side fins (aka “wings”) from the squid tube. These can be chewy if not handled correctly, so give them their own spotlight later or discard. The Utility Knife’s sharp, narrow blade makes this a swift, controlled task—no hacking required.

Step 2: Open the Tube Like a Book

Pro Tip: Slice one side of the tube to open the squid out flat.

Lay the squid tube on your board and gently guide your knife through one side to butterfly it open. You’re not tearing; you’re revealing—exposing the perfect canvas for scoring. The Utility Knife’s medium size gives you more grip and finesse, especially when handling slippery seafood.

Step 3: Score with Style

Pro Tip: Score the flesh at a 45° angle, taking care not to cut all the way through in a diamond pattern.

Here’s where the magic happens. Use your Utility Knife to lightly slice across the surface of the squid at a 45° angle. Then repeat in the opposite direction to create that iconic diamond pattern. Why does this matter? Because those shallow cuts do double duty—they tenderise the flesh and create crispy, golden edges when seared.

But this isn’t guesswork. With its razor-sharp edge and slim blade, the Utility Knife gives you the exacting control you need to make shallow cuts without slicing through. It's precise enough for fine detail, and brave enough for seafood prep.

The Knife That Knows How to Work

Search terms like how to score squid, best knife for seafood, and how to stop squid from curling when cooking is growing fast—and for good reason. More people are trying their hand at restaurant-quality dishes at home, and they need tools that deliver pro results with confidence.

The 15cm Utility Knife is a kitchen essential with a clever edge. It’s light in the hand, smart in the design, and ready to make seafood prep something you look forward to—not fear.

So next time squids on the menu, don’t just cook it. Master it. One cut at a time.