Jul 13 2026

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Served with spicy aioli

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Crispy Calamari

Method

Crispy Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut the calamari into rings about 1/2 inch thick.

  2. 2

    Soak in Buttermilk

    Place the calamari rings in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Coating

    In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Dredge each ring in the flour mixture until fully coated.

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Spicy Aioli

  1. 7

    Make the Aioli

    In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

  2. 8

    Serve

    Serve the crispy calamari hot with the spicy aioli on the side for dipping.

More from Beacon Hills in Aksarben Village