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Squid, Cuttlefish, and Octopus: The Ocean Trio Putting Indonesia on the Global Culinary Map

IT DMK Cargo
Nov 11, 2025
2 min read

Indonesia is known for its vast blue oceans rich with life. From Sabang to Merauke, the waters of the archipelago have long been a source of inspiration and livelihood for millions of fishermen. Beneath the waves and sandy shores lies a trio of marine treasures that are now bringing Indonesia’s name to the global stage: squid, cuttlefish, and octopus.

They are not just ordinary catches from the sea but symbols of the richness of flavor, culinary tradition, and the extraordinary economic potential of Indonesia’s marine resources.

Squid: The All-Time Favorite That Never Disappoints

Squid is one of the most popular seafood products in Indonesia. Its tender texture and savory taste make it loved by many. From crispy fried calamari to spicy Indonesian-style squid dishes, this ingredient always finds a special place in the hearts of seafood lovers.

Beyond its delicious taste, squid is also highly nutritious. It is rich in protein, low in fat, and packed with vitamin B12 and selenium that are beneficial for the body. It is no surprise that the demand for Indonesian squid continues to rise in international markets, particularly in Japan, Spain, and the United States.

Cuttlefish: The Elegant Black Ink of the Sea

Cuttlefish is often mistaken for squid even though they have different characteristics. The meat of cuttlefish is slightly thicker and contains dark black ink, making it a favorite ingredient in many exotic dishes. In modern kitchens, cuttlefish ink is used to create natural color and rich flavor in dishes like black ink pasta or risotto that have become popular across many restaurants around the world.

The uniqueness of cuttlefish lies not only in its flavor but also in its visual appeal. Indonesian cuttlefish is in high demand for its quality and freshness, supported by modern and export-standard processing methods.

Octopus: The Intelligent Delight from the Deep Sea

Octopus holds a special place in the world of seafood cuisine. With its chewy yet tender texture and subtle savory taste, octopus is a key ingredient in Mediterranean, Japanese, and Korean dishes. In Indonesia, octopus has begun to gain popularity in modern seafood restaurants for its mild flavor and high nutritional value.

More than just a culinary ingredient, octopus represents the richness of Indonesia’s oceans. The growing export demand for Indonesian octopus reflects the world’s trust in the quality of the country’s marine products.

From Indonesia’s Seas to the World’s Tables

Squid, cuttlefish, and octopus are not only icons of Indonesia’s seafood industry but also proof of the nation’s ability to bring world-class products to the global market. Behind every dish lies a story of the ocean, the dedication of local fishermen, and the spirit of a nation eager to share its natural bounty with the world.