squid (स्क्विड)
About squid (स्क्विड)
Squid, while not a staple in traditional Nepali cuisine, is gaining popularity in urban areas, particularly among those with exposure to international culinary trends. Its availability has improved with better import and supply chains. Though Nepal is a landlocked country, seafood like squid is often available in supermarkets and restaurants in major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Biratnagar. It's enjoyed both in simple preparations and as part of more elaborate dishes. However, it's not as commonly consumed as freshwater fish or other meats due to its price and relative novelty in the Nepali diet. Despite this, with increasing globalisation, squids are slowly getting into Nepali kitchens and the cuisine.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in squid
Seasonality
Squid availability in Nepal is not directly tied to local seasons as it is imported. The supply is mostly dependent on international fishing seasons and import logistics. Generally, squid is available year-round in major supermarkets and seafood markets. However, availability and price might fluctuate due to global fishing yields, shipping schedules, and local market demand in Nepal.
History
The consumption of squid in Nepal is relatively recent. It is not part of the traditional Nepali culinary heritage. Historically, Nepal, being a landlocked nation, relied primarily on freshwater fish from its rivers and lakes, as well as meats such as buffalo, goat, and chicken. Squid and other seafood were not readily available or common. The introduction of squid to the Nepali diet is largely tied to the rise of global food trade and access to international ingredients, especially in urban areas. The development of better transport infrastructure has allowed the import of seafood products, including squid, into Nepal. Thus, squid is an example of a food that has become available to Nepalese consumers as a result of globalisation and food import practices.