To prepare the squid, chop the squid tentacles and wings until very fine. Cut the squid bodies in half lengthways, flatten out and stack one half on top of the other in vacuum-pack bags and seal. Freeze the squid bodies in the bags for at least two hours, or until frozen solid
Heat a frying pan until hot, add a dash of olive oil and the chopped tentacles and wings. Cook over a medium heat until all of the liquid comes out. Drain the squid mince, discarding the liquid
In a separate frying pan, add a dash of olive oil and gently fry the shallot and garlic with the bouquet garni until softened
Add the cooked chopped squid, parsley and tomato purée to the frying pan and cook for 5-10 minutes
Add the brandy and cook until it has reduced in volume, add the wine and reduce by half again
Add the chilli flakes and top up the pan with water, until just covering the pan contents. Bring the pan up to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until the squid is tender and the volume of liquid has reduced. Check the seasoning - add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Just before serving, bring a pan of water up to the boil. Take the frozen squid bodies out of the freezer and remove from the vacuum-pack bags. Thinly slice the frozen squid bodies into 2mm thick slices. Drop the squid slices into the boiling water and cook for 10-15 seconds
Drain well and mix with the softened butter, salt and freshly ground black pepper
To serve, spoon the squid slices into serving bowls and spoon the ragout on top. Finish with some grated Parmesan and chopped parsley
