Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Row 34›Calamari Recipe

Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Row 34
Time30m
Serves4

Make Calamari Recipe in just 30m. 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

Prepare the Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Start by cleaning the fresh calamari. Remove the head and tentacles from the body. Remove the innards and skin, then rinse the calamari under cold water. Cut the body into rings about 1/2 inch thick.

  2. 2

    Mix the Coating

    In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Fry the Calamari

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into it; it should sizzle immediately.

  2. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Take the cleaned calamari rings and toss them in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off any excess flour before frying.

  3. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the calamari rings in the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

  4. 6

    Drain and Keep Warm

    Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep them warm in the oven while you fry the remaining batches.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

  1. 7

    Mix the Sauce

    In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust hot sauce to your preference for spiciness.

Serve

  1. 8

    Plate and Serve

    Once all calamari are fried and the dipping sauce is ready, serve the calamari hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

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