Jul 17 2026
Restaurants›Baltimore Seafood›Fried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Baltimore Seafood
Time45m
Serves4

Make Fried Calamari Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Breading

For Frying

Garnish (Optional)

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Rinse the cleaned calamari under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Place the calamari rings in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge) to tenderize.

Breading

  1. 3

    In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  2. 4

    Drain the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.

  3. 5

    Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Frying

  1. 6

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 7

    Fry the calamari in batches for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.

  3. 8

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serving

  1. 9

    Transfer fried calamari to a serving platter.

  2. 10

    Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired.

  3. 11

    Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.

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