Description
Seafood enthusiasts will dive into this crispy fried calamari recipe, perfected with a golden, crunchy coating that promises restaurant-quality delight. Delicate rings emerge from hot oil with irresistible texture, inviting you to savor Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound squid (cut into rings)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup milk
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2–3 lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Thoroughly blot squid rings with paper towels to eliminate residual moisture, ensuring a crisp exterior during frying.
- Create two separate seasoning stations: first, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika in a shallow dish. In a second container, whisk eggs with whole milk until smooth and uniform.
- Immerse each squid ring first into the egg-milk blend, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then meticulously coat with the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to secure an even, comprehensive coverage.
- Preheat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F, monitoring temperature with a culinary thermometer for precise heating. Carefully introduce calamari in small batches, avoiding overcrowding, and fry for approximately 2-3 minutes until achieving a rich golden-brown coloration and delicate crispy texture.
- Transfer fried calamari onto a wire rack or layered paper towels to drain excess oil, promoting maximum crispiness. Arrange on a serving platter, garnish with fresh lemon wedges, and accompany with zesty marinara or tangy aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Select fresh, high-quality squid for the best texture and flavor when preparing calamari.
- Pat squid rings completely dry to prevent splattering and ensure a crispy, golden-brown coating during frying.
- Experiment with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a low-carb alternative that still delivers a satisfying crunch.
- Add extra flavor by mixing herbs like parsley or oregano into the breading mixture for a more complex taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg