Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLittlebirdCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Littlebird
Time45m
Serves4

Served with a spicy aioli.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

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

  2. 2

    Make the Dredge

    In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Soak in Buttermilk

    Place the calamari rings in a separate bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Dredge the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each ring in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Frying

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the dredged calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain the Calamari

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

  4. 8

    Serve

    Serve the crispy calamari immediately with spicy aioli on the side.

Spicy Aioli Preparation

  1. 9

    Combine Ingredients

    In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until smooth and well combined.

  2. 10

    Taste and Adjust

    Taste the aioli and adjust seasoning with additional salt or sriracha as needed.

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