Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsCotton RestaurantCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Cotton Restaurant
Time30m
Serves4

Served with a spicy aioli

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Ingredients

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For the Calamari

For the Spicy Aioli

Method

For the Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture.

  2. 2

    Make the Breading

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Set aside on a plate.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add a few calamari rings at a time to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

  6. 6

    Repeat

    Continue frying the remaining calamari in batches until all are cooked. Keep the fried calamari warm in the oven while you finish.

For the Spicy Aioli

  1. 7

    Mix the Ingredients

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

  2. 8

    Taste and Adjust

    Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning with more salt or sriracha if desired. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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