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Arroz Negro

Short-grain rice cooked jet-black with squid ink and tender pieces of squid, served with a bowl of garlicky aioli.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 30 minCook time
🍽 4Servings
🏷 DinnerCategory
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Arroz Negro - squid ink black rice with squid and garlic aioli

Arroz negro is the dramatic cousin of paella: short-grain rice stained jet-black by squid ink and simmered with tender squid in a rich seafood stock. The deep, briny flavor is surprisingly delicate, with a subtle sweetness from the sea.

Named for its color, this Valencian and Catalan favorite is typically finished with a bold swipe of garlicky allioli. It is often served for special weekend meals, straight from the pan, with lemon wedges to brighten each bite.

Master the rice and you master the dish: How to Cook Perfect Rice Every Time.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a wide paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the squid rings and tentacles for 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the rice and paprika, toasting for 1 minute, then pour in the wine and let it absorb.
  4. Whisk the squid ink into the warm fish stock until dissolved, pour it over the rice, and add the salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes without stirring, then nestle the squid back into the rice and cook 5 minutes more until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. Rest off the heat, covered, for 5 minutes. Scatter with parsley and serve with allioli and lemon wedges.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Do not stir the rice after adding the stock — a crust on the bottom is traditional and prized. If squid ink is hard to find, a few cleaned squid pouches with their ink will do double duty.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook30 min
Servings4
CategoryDinner
PublishedAugust 17, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →