Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMerchant BarFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Merchant Bar
Time45m
Serves4

Make Fried 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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For the Calamari

For the Dipping Sauce

Method

Preparation of Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean and Cut Calamari

    If not already done, clean the calamari by removing the head and innards, then slice the body into rings. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Coating

    In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until well combined.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Egg Wash

    In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are frothy.

  4. 4

    Prepare the Breadcrumbs

    In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

  5. 5

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat them with breadcrumbs. Ensure each ring is evenly coated.

Frying the Calamari

  1. 6

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of bread into it; it should sizzle immediately.

  2. 7

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated 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. 8

    Drain Excess Oil

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

Preparation of Dipping Sauce

  1. 9

    Mix Sauce Ingredients

    In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and hot sauce. Stir until well mixed and adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving

  1. 10

    Serve and Enjoy

    Serve the fried calamari hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.

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