Enjoy the restaurant-quality taste of Crispy Fried Calamari right at home with this simple and delicious recipe. Perfectly fried to golden-brown perfection, these tender calamari rings make an irresistible appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb uncooked, cleaned calamari, cut into rings (include tentacles if available)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or low-fat buttermilk)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Calamari:
- Wash the calamari rings and tentacles in cold water, then use paper towels to dry them completely.
- Place the calamari in a bowl and pour the milk (or buttermilk) over them. Let soak for 15-20 minutes. This will help tenderize the calamari.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there is enough oil to fully submerge the calamari pieces.
- Bread the Calamari:
- Remove the calamari from the milk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge the calamari in the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Shake off any excess coating.
- Fry the Calamari:
- Working in batches, carefully place the coated calamari into the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy fried calamari hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or aioli.
Conclusion
Crispy Fried Calamari is a delightful treat that brings a taste of the sea to your table. The combination of tender calamari and crunchy coating makes for a perfect appetizer that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish with family and friends, and bring a bit of the restaurant experience home.