Fried Calamari Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cleaned calamari (squid), cut into rings
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges and marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
Marinate the Calamari:
- Place the calamari rings and tentacles in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizes the calamari and adds flavor.
Prepare the Coating:
- In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, rice flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. The rice flour helps create a light and crispy coating.
Heat the Oil:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for perfect frying.
Coat the Calamari:
- Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Do not overcrowd the bowl to avoid clumping.
Fry the Calamari:
- Fry the calamari in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid frying too long to keep the calamari tender and not chewy.
Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and marinara sauce for dipping .
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 395
- Fat: 3.0 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.0 g
- Carbohydrates: 64.0 g
- Fiber: 2.3 g
- Sugars: 3.4 g
- Protein: 25.6 g
- Sodium: 606.9 mg.
Occasions for Serving Fried Calamari:
Fried calamari is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It makes an excellent appetizer for dinner parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations. Its crispy texture and savory flavor also make it a popular choice for game-day snacks or casual get-togethers. Serve it as a starter at a seafood-themed dinner or pair it with a salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
By following these detailed instructions, you can enjoy restaurant-quality fried calamari in the comfort of your home. The key to perfect fried calamari is ensuring the oil temperature remains steady and not overcrowding the frying pot. Enjoy your delicious and crispy fried calamari with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of marinara sauce.
Sources: https://www.fifteenspatulas.com/ ; https://www.themediterraneandish.com/
