Fried Calamari Recipe
Tender calamari fried to a golden crisp.
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.
Main Ingredients
Dipping Sauce
Method
Fried Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Begin by cleaning the calamari. Rinse them under cold water and remove any skin. Cut the calamari into rings about 1/2 inch thick.
- 2
Make the Breading
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- 3
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Coat the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring first into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
Dipping Sauce Preparation
- 8
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- 9
Serve
Serve the dipping sauce alongside the fried calamari for a delicious pairing.