Fried Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe is a popular dish that features tender pieces of squid coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe will guide you through making delicious fried calamari at home, perfect for serving as an appetizer or a main dish.
Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Calamari:
- 1 pound cleaned calamari (tubes and tentacles)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt (plus more for serving)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Marinara sauce or aioli (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Calamari:
- Start by cutting the cleaned calamari tubes into rings about ¾ inch thick. If you have tentacles, leave them whole. Place the calamari in a bowl with the buttermilk and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep pot, heat about 3-4 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the right temperature for frying.
- Dredge the Calamari:
- Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. It’s important to coat each piece evenly for a crispy exterior.
- Fry the Calamari:
- Carefully add several pieces of calamari to the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Season and Serve:
- While still hot, sprinkle with additional salt if desired and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Tenderizing: Soaking calamari in buttermilk helps tenderize it and adds flavor.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the proper oil temperature is crucial; too low will result in greasy calamari, while too high can burn it.
- Serving Suggestions: Fried calamari pairs well with various dipping sauces such as marinara, garlic aioli, or even a spicy remoulade.
Easy Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe
Crispy Fried Calamari is a delicious appetizer that’s easy to prepare and perfect for seafood lovers. Start by slicing 1 pound of fresh calamari (squid) into 1/2-inch rings, and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the calamari in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can make the calamari soggy. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a side of marinara or garlic aioli for dipping. Crispy, tender, and flavorful, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!Easy Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe
Crispy Fried Calamari is a quick and tasty appetizer. Coat calamari rings in seasoned flour, fry until golden and crunchy, and serve with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli. Perfect for seafood lovers!Easy Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe
Conclusion
This fried calamari recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results that rival any restaurant dish. With its crispy coating and tender squid inside, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your homemade fried calamari as a delightful appetizer or main course!