Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEncore by GoodfellasFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Make Fried Calamari Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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.

Calamari

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Clean the calamari by removing the head, innards, and skin. Cut the body into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Rinse the rings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Soak in Buttermilk

    Place the calamari rings in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.

Breading

  1. 3

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

  2. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Frying

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add a handful of the coated calamari rings to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the calamari and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  3. 7

    Repeat the Frying Process

    Continue frying the remaining calamari rings in batches until all are cooked. Maintain the oil temperature between batches.

  4. 8

    Serve

    Serve the fried calamari immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

More from Encore by Goodfellas