Tempura Calamari recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Aug 04 2026
RestaurantsMasa Japanese HibachiTempura Calamari Recipe

Tempura Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Make Tempura Calamari Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Tempura Batter

Frying

Dipping Sauce

Method

Preparing Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean and Season

    In a bowl, mix the cleaned calamari with salt and black pepper. Ensure that the calamari is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Making Tempura Batter

  1. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

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

  2. 3

    Add Wet Ingredients

    Gradually add the cold water to the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Add the ice cubes to keep the batter cold. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Frying Calamari

  1. 4

    Heat Oil

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F).

  2. 5

    Coat Calamari

    Dredge the seasoned calamari in the tempura batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off.

  3. 6

    Fry Calamari

    Carefully drop the battered calamari into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Preparing Dipping Sauce

  1. 7

    Mix Sauce Ingredients

    In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and chili flakes until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

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