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Fried Calamari

Crispy Fried Calamari That Will Wow Your Guests

This Crispy Fried Calamari features a buttermilk soak for tender squid, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser at any party.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Soaking Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Calamari
  • 1 pound Calamari Fresh squid bodies sliced into ½ inch rings; frozen calamari can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Soak for at least 30 minutes.
For the Batter
  • 1 cup Flour All-purpose flour is ideal.
  • ½ cup Cornflour Potato starch is a suitable substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance the taste.
  • Salt Adjust to taste.
  • Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • Garlic Powder Adjust to taste.
  • Cayenne Adjust to taste.
  • Red Chili Flakes Optional; adjust to taste.
For the Aioli
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Creamy base for the aioli.
  • 1 lemon Lemon Zest and Juice Fresh is best for brightness.
  • Tabasco Sauce Add to taste.
To Serve
  • Chopped Parsley Fresh garnish.
  • Lemon Wedges For added brightness.

Equipment

  • Deep skillet or fryer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Fried Calamari
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, the zest and juice of one lemon, a few dashes of Tabasco sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate.
  2. Take 1 pound of cleaned calamari and slice it into ½-inch rings. Soak in 1 cup of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornflour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and optional red chili flakes. Mix well.
  4. Remove the calamari from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture.
  5. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (170°C).
  6. Fry calamari in small batches for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and aioli.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 16gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, soak calamari in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, avoid overcrowding during frying, and ensure oil is at the correct temperature.

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