Fried Calamari Recipe
Make Fried Calamari Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Dipping Sauce
Method
Preparing the Calamari
- 1
Clean and Cut the Calamari
If not already cleaned, clean the calamari by removing the head, internal organs, and the transparent quill. Rinse the calamari under cold water and dry with paper towels. Cut the calamari into rings about 1/2 inch thick.
- 2
Prepare the Breading Station
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- 3
Bread the Calamari
Dip each piece of calamari into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Frying the Calamari
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
- 5
Fry the Calamari
Carefully place a few pieces of breaded calamari into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- 6
Repeat
Continue frying the remaining calamari in batches until all are cooked. Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
Making the Dipping Sauce
- 7
Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot sauce (if using) until well combined.
- 8
Serve
Serve the fried calamari hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
