Jul 14 2026

Calamari Fritti Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Delicately fried to crisp perfection

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Clean the calamari by removing the head, innards, and skin. Rinse under cold water and cut the body into rings, about 1/2 inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Batter

    In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Buttermilk

    In another bowl, pour the buttermilk. This will be used to dip the calamari before coating it with the flour mixture.

Cooking

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

  2. 5

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

  3. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the calamari and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving

  1. 7

    Garnish and Serve

    Arrange the fried calamari on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.

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