Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa CañitaFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by La Cañita
Time30m
Serves4

pickled peppers, lemon garlic aioli

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Pickled Peppers

Lemon Garlic Aioli

Method

Preparation of Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings in cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a crispy texture after frying.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Frying the Calamari

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or frying pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

  2. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dredge the prepared calamari rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

  3. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated calamari rings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  4. 6

    Drain the Calamari

    Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Lemon Garlic Aioli Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare the Aioli

    In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic clove (finely chopped), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and well combined.

  2. 8

    Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Arrange the fried calamari on a serving platter, and garnish with pickled banana peppers on the side.

  2. 10

    Serve with Aioli

    Serve the fried calamari immediately with the lemon garlic aioli for dipping.

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