Instructions: Clean and cut the squid into circles. You simply cut off the head of each and remove the filling from the tube, or body. Dont forget the plasticlike backbone of the squid. You will find it within the tube of the fish while you are digging around.

Rinse the tubes and you are ready to begin. I also save the tentacles, though not the head, for other dishes.

Bring the stock, wine and cream to a heavy simmer and allow to reduce by one-third.

Add the ginger and the roux which you made by cooking the 1 tablespoon flour in 1 tablespoon butter. Cook the sauce, stirring, until thickened.

Taste for salt and pepper. Careful with the pepper; little, if any, is needed.

Stir in the mustard. Add the squid and cook just until the squid are tender, about 5 minutes.

Serve in small boats or bowls with plenty of good French bread for sopping up the very rich sauce.

This is a wonderful dish for a first course. It is very rich.

This recipe serves 2 to 3 as a first course.

Comments: Squid is probably the most maligned fish from the sea. You remember the great stories from Jules Vernes classics about gigantic squid that swim under the sea. What a horrible fright to put upon the squid lovers of the world.

While it is true that squid grow to great length, the kind you and I buy in a fish market, either frozen or fresh, are little rascals about 5 or 6 inches long. They are easy to clean.

This one has you wondering, doesnt it? Wait till you taste it. You will love it.

Suggested Wine: Chenin Blanc

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