Crispy Fried Calamari

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Saramin (@678sarin)

Enjoy your crispy fried calamari as a delicious appetizer or main dish! Make your favorite recipe easily at home, click here

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
3min
Total Time
23min
Crispy Fried Calamari recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = approximately 1/4 lb)
  • 1lb
    calamari rings and tentacles, cleaned and thawed if frozen
  • 1cup
    all-purpose flour
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1tsp
    garlic powder
  • 1tsp
    paprika
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • lemon wedges for serving

How to make Crispy Fried Calamari

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.

  2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.

  3. Dredge the calamari in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

    Step 1.1: Dredge the calamari in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess
  4. Carefully drop the calamari into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer.

    Step 1.1: Carefully drop the calamari into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer
    Step 1.2: Carefully drop the calamari into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer
  5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  6. Remove the calamari from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

    Step 1.1: Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

292.5kcal (14.63%)

Protein

20.0g (40%)

Carbs

45.0g (16.36%)

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

1.3g

Unhealthy Fat

0.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.

  2. Do not overcrowd the fryer to maintain the oil temperature.

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to ensure crispy fried calamari?

    To achieve perfectly crispy fried calamari, make sure to dredge the calamari rings and tentacles in a well-seasoned flour mixture, and fry them in hot oil at 375°F. Avoid overcrowding the fryer, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy calamari. Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

  2. Can I make crispy fried calamari gluten-free?

    Yes, you can easily make crispy fried calamari gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will give you a similar texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities.

  3. How should I store leftover fried calamari?

    To store leftover crispy fried calamari, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness, rather than a microwave, which can make it soggy.

  4. What can I serve with crispy fried calamari?

    Crispy fried calamari pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, aioli, or tartar sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a seafood platter for a delightful appetizer or main dish.

  5. What type of oil is best for frying calamari?

    For frying calamari, it's best to use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, ensuring your calamari cooks evenly and becomes crispy.

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Saramin

(@678sarin)

My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes...

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