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Crispy fried calamari on a black plate

Crispy Fried Calamari

Crispy Fried Calamari recipe is a popular appetizer that features tender squid coated in seasoned flour or batter and deep-fried until crispy. It is commonly served with dips and pairs well with sides and beverages.
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Servings: 0
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Seafood
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb fresh squid sliced into rings
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • lemon wedges for serving
  • marinara sauce for aioli for dipping

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  2. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
  3. Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk and coat it in the flour mixture. Shake off the excess and place the coated calamari rings on a plate or baking sheet.
  4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven until it reaches 375°F.
  5. In batches, fry the calamari rings until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  7. Serve the fried calamari hot, with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce.
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