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Crispy Fried Calamari with Lemon Wedges Recipe

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4.1 from 41 reviews

This crispy fried calamari recipe features tender squid rings marinated in buttermilk, coated in a seasoned flour and cornstarch mix, and fried to golden perfection. Served with fresh lemon wedges, it makes a perfect appetizer or snack with a crisp, flavorful crust and tender interior.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Calamari and Marinade

  • 1 lb squid, fresh or frozen (cleaned, defrosted if frozen and drained)
  • 1 cup buttermilk or milk + ½ tsp salt mixed

Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ⅓ cup cornstarch
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp mild paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano leaves
  • ¾ tsp ground black pepper
  • ⅓-½ tsp cayenne or other hot chili powder

For Frying and Serving

  • Light oil for frying (light olive oil, grapeseed oil, or avocado oil), about 2 cups
  • Sea salt, as needed
  • 1 fresh lemon, sliced to serve

Instructions

  1. Prepare Squid Rings: Slice the cleaned calamari tubes into ¾-inch thick rings. Place the squid rings in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk or salted milk mix. Stir to coat evenly and refrigerate for 30 minutes to tenderize.
  2. Mix Coating Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, dried oregano, mild paprika, ground black pepper, and cayenne powder until well combined.
  3. Coat the Calamari: Use tongs to lift squid rings from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Lightly toss the rings in the flour mixture until fully coated. Place coated rings in a colander and let them rest for 7-10 minutes to help the coating adhere.
  4. Heat Frying Oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of your chosen light oil into a small saucepan and heat it to 350°F – 365°F (177°C – 185°C). Use a thermometer or the test method to ensure correct frying temperature.
  5. Fry the Calamari: Carefully place a few coated squid rings into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2½ to 3 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Immediately season with sea salt.
  6. Serve: Repeat frying with the remaining calamari. Serve the fried calamari hot with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the oil when frying to maintain oil temperature and achieve crispy results.
  • Letting the coated calamari rest before frying helps the batter stick better.
  • Adjust cayenne or chili powder to your preferred spice level.
  • Use fresh lemon to enhance the flavor just before serving.
  • The frying oil should be neutral and have a high smoke point such as grapeseed or avocado oil for best results.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/crispy-fried-calamari-with-lemon-wedges-recipe/