Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsIzakaya 88Calamari Tempura Recipe

Calamari Tempura Recipe

Inspired by Izakaya 88
Time45m
Serves4

Calamari fried golden in our own batter.

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

Tempura Batter

For Frying

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prep the Calamari

    Begin by preparing the calamari. Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, season the calamari rings with salt and black pepper. Mix well and set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Batter Preparation

  1. 3

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Whisk them together until well mixed.

  2. 4

    Prepare Wet Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add the ice-cold water. Mix well before adding to the dry ingredients.

  3. 5

    Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should be lumpy; do not overmix.

Frying

  1. 6

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep pot or a deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the top, it's ready.

  2. 7

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each marinated calamari ring into the tempura batter, allowing the excess batter to drip off.

  3. 8

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the battered calamari rings into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.

  4. 9

    Drain the Calamari

    Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the calamari turns golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  5. 10

    Repeat the process until all calamari rings are fried. Serve immediately while hot.

More from Izakaya 88