Fried calamari is a classic and popular seafood appetizer that has made its way into the hearts and palates of people around the world. The dish typically consists of squid rings or tentacles that are coated in a light, crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a delectable combination of textures—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Food and meal with Fried calamari are unforgetable for your family.
The appeal of fried calamari lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its versatility. It can be served as an appetizer, a snack, or even as a main course accompanied by various dipping sauces or as part of a larger seafood feast. The dish’s popularity stems from its ability to satisfy cravings and provide a delightful eating experience.
Fried Calamari
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/3 C. plain cornmeal
- 1/2 C. semolina flour
- 1/2 C. almond flour
- 1/2 pounds baby squid
- 5-6 C. olive oil
Instructions
- Preparing the Ingredients. Rinse squid in cold water and slice tentacles, keeping just ¼-inch of the hood in one piece.
- Combine 1-2 pinches of pepper, salt, Old Bay seasoning, cornmeal, and both flours together. Dredge squid pieces into flour mixture and place into the Dutch oven.
- Air Frying. Spray liberally with olive oil. Cook 15 minutes at 345degrees till coating turns a golden brown.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Tips for cooking
Here are some tips for cooking fried calamari to achieve delicious results:
1. Fresh calamari: Start with fresh calamari for the best flavor and texture. Look for firm, glossy squid with a mild scent of the ocean.
2. Cleaning and prepping: Clean the calamari by removing the tentacles and pulling out the transparent backbone. Rinse the squid thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel. Slice the body into rings and leave the tentacles intact.
3. Tenderizing: To ensure tender calamari, you can tenderize it by soaking it in buttermilk or a mixture of milk and lemon juice for about 30 minutes before frying. This step helps to break down any toughness in the squid.
4. Breading: Prepare a breading station with three bowls – one with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs or a mixture of breadcrumbs and cornmeal for added crunch. Dip each calamari ring and tentacle first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. You can breading with a dutch oven for sourdough baking to increase the taste of the dish.
5. Oil temperature: Heat vegetable oil or another frying oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil, to around 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control. Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy calamari without it becoming greasy.
6. Fry in small batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan or fryer. Fry the calamari in small batches to allow even cooking and to prevent the temperature of the oil from dropping too much, resulting in soggy calamari.
7. Drain excess oil: Once the calamari turns golden brown, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
8. Seasoning: Season the fried calamari with salt and any desired additional seasonings immediately after frying, while it is still hot. Consider adding a sprinkle of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a touch of lemon zest for extra flavor.
9. Serve promptly: Fried calamari is best enjoyed immediately while it’s still hot and crispy. Serve it with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce like marinara sauce, aioli, or a spicy chili sauce.
10. Experiment with variations: Feel free to experiment with different coatings, such as adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs or incorporating a touch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a bit of heat.
Remember, safety is essential when working with hot oil. Be cautious and use appropriate kitchen equipment to protect yourself from potential burns or accidents.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving fried calamari, there are several delightful suggestions to enhance your dining experience. Here are a few serving ideas that can elevate your fried calamari dish:
1. Classic Appetizer: Serve the fried calamari as a classic appetizer. Arrange the crispy calamari rings or tentacles on a platter alongside a bowl of tangy marinara sauce or aioli for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
2. Seafood Platter: Include fried calamari as part of a seafood platter. Arrange the fried calamari alongside other seafood favorites like shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets. Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges for added zest.
3. Salad Topping: Use fried calamari as a delicious topping for salads. Prepare a bed of fresh greens, such as mixed greens or arugula, and place a generous portion of fried calamari on top. Add sliced cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of vinaigrette dressing for a light and flavorful meal.
4. Calamari Po’ Boy Sandwich: Create a mouthwatering Calamari Po’ Boy sandwich. Toast a crusty roll and layer it with crispy fried calamari, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of tartar sauce. Serve with a side of fries or coleslaw for a satisfying and hearty meal.
5. Tapas-style Sharing Plate: Serve fried calamari as part of a tapas-style sharing plate. Combine it with other small bites like fried cheese, bruschetta, or stuffed peppers. Arrange the different dishes on a large platter and let your guests enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.
6. Asian-inspired Stir-Fry: Incorporate fried calamari into an Asian-inspired stir-fry. Sauté bell peppers, onions, and snap peas in a wok, then add the crispy calamari to the mix. Drizzle with a soy-based sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a flavorful fusion dish.
Remember to serve your fried calamari while it’s still hot and crispy to fully enjoy its texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different serving suggestions and accompaniments to create a personalized culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving ideas will complement the deliciousness of fried calamari.