Fried calamari
This crispy fried calamari is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delicious snack. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g calamari (squid), cleaned and sliced into rings
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Marinara sauce or aioli for dipping
Instructions
Prepare the calamari:
- Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are completely dry before proceeding.
Prepare the breading mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to combine.
Coat the calamari:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F (190°C). Dip the calamari rings into the flour mixture, coating them evenly and shaking off any excess flour.
Fry the calamari:
- Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil, in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcooking, as calamari can become tough if cooked for too long.
Drain and serve:
- Once the calamari rings are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serve:
- Serve the fried calamari hot with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or aioli. Enjoy them as an appetizer or as part of a seafood platter!