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How to Make Crispy Calamari Recipe

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Learn how to make crispy calamari with two popular cooking methods: stovetop frying and air frying. This recipe features tender calamari rings coated in a seasoned flour mixture and cooked to golden perfection. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and marinara sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Calamari Prep

  • 1 pound calamari rings (tentacles or a combination of the two)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking

  • Avocado oil or other neutral oil of choice

Garnish and Serving

  • Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
  • Lemon wedges
  • Marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare Flour Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the sea salt and all-purpose flour thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  2. Coat Calamari: Add the calamari rings and/or tentacles to the bowl and toss well, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the flour mixture for a crisp exterior.
  3. Cook on Stovetop: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes. Test the oil’s readiness by adding a piece of calamari – it should sizzle immediately.
  4. Fry in Batches: Add the coated calamari in 2-3 small batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook each batch for 2-4 minutes on one side until the calamari stiffens, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Adjust heat slightly if oil splatters.
  5. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked calamari onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease and maintain crispiness.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately with lemon wedges and marinara sauce on the side.
  7. Air Fryer Option: After coating the calamari with the seasoned flour, place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches to avoid overlapping.
  8. Oil the Calamari: Lightly spray or brush the coated calamari with avocado oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
  9. Cook in Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F and cook calamari for 20 minutes total, shaking the basket at 10 minutes and again at 15 minutes for even cooking and browning.
  10. Serve: Remove calamari from the air fryer and serve hot with lemon wedges and marinara sauce, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For the crispiest calamari, avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket during cooking.
  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if desired, but texture may vary slightly.
  • Be sure to heat the oil thoroughly before frying to prevent soggy calamari.
  • Use fresh calamari if possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust cooking times slightly depending on the size and thickness of your calamari pieces.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/how-to-make-crispy-calamari-recipe/