Fried Calamari

There’s something utterly irresistible about the crunch of perfectly fried calamari. My love for this dish started during a family vacation by the beach, where we dined at a quaint seaside restaurant. The moment I bit into the freshly fried calamari, the combination of crispy batter and tender seafood was an explosion of joy. This Fried Calamari recipe captures that same essence right in your kitchen. With a zesty tartar sauce to dip in, it brings back fond memories of those sunny days spent by the ocean, making it a hit at home. Whenever I crave a taste of nostalgia, this dish is my go-to. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, this Fried Calamari is bound to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

What’s In This Fried Calamari

This Fried Calamari recipe calls for a selection of ingredients that come together to create a deliciously crispy treat. The batter, combining wheat flour, corn flour, and fine semolina, delivers that signature crunch. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the calamari itself to the seasoning that enhances the flavors.

• 6 large calamari cleaned and cut into rings of 3 cm (about 1 inch)
• 180g wheat flour sifted to achieve a light batter
• 180g corn flour for added crispiness
• 90g fine semolina to give the batter a unique texture
• 1 tbsp mustard powder for a subtle kick
• 1 tbsp dried tarragon to add a herbal note
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder for a hint of smokiness
• Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor
• 3 tbsp finely chopped pickled cucumber for a tangy twist
• 3 tbsp chopped capers to bring a burst of flavor
• 1/2 medium onion finely chopped, adding depth
• 1/2 lime (or lemon) juiced to brighten the sauce
• 350g mayonnaise as a creamy base for the sauce
• 1 ½ tbsp finely chopped dill for a fresh touch
• Pepper to taste, balancing the flavors

Making This Fried Calamari

Frying calamari at home is an experience that I cherish, and it’s easier than you might think! Follow these steps to achieve a delicious Fried Calamari that you’ll want to make again and again.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine wheat flour, corn flour, fine semolina, mustard powder, dried tarragon, and smoked paprika powder. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
2. Take each piece of calamari and immerse it in the prepared batter, ensuring it is well coated. This step is crucial for achieving that wonderful crunch.
3. Next, heat a deep pan over high heat and fill it with plenty of sunflower oil. You want enough oil for the calamari to float as it fries.
4. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the battered calamari in batches. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, usually taking a few minutes.
5. As you fry, keep a close eye on the color. You’re looking for a rich golden hue. Once done, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
6. For the tartar sauce, combine pickled cucumber, capers, onion, and lime juice in a blender. Blend until a smooth paste is formed.
7. Transfer this paste to a kitchen towel, wrap it tightly, and press it firmly to remove any excess liquid.
8. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, the prepared paste, dill, and a touch of pepper. Stir until well combined.
9. Finally, serve the hot calamari with the freshly made tartar sauce on the side. The combination is a match made in culinary heaven!

Customization Ideas

I love experimenting with my Fried Calamari recipe, allowing room for creativity. Here are some tips to customize this dish:

• Spice it Up: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Different Dips: Try serving with a garlic aioli or a zesty lime dressing instead of tartar sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute calamari with zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest on top before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Perfect Matches for Fried Calamari

When serving Fried Calamari, it’s essential to create a balanced meal that complements this delicious dish. Here are some perfect matches to consider:

• Fresh Salad: Pair with a light, refreshing salad such as a cucumber and tomato salad to balance the richness of the fried calamari.
• Light Pasta: A simple garlic and olive oil pasta can serve as a delightful side dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers, family dinners, or as an appetizer for a festive gathering.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within a couple of days.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this dish during summer with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Fried Calamari recipe is a wonderfully satisfying dish that brings a taste of the ocean right to your home. With its crispy texture and delicious tartar sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in. I urge you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household as it has in mine.

Fried Calamari

Experience the ultimate crunch with my Fried Calamari. This easy recipe brings together fresh ingredients for a crispy treat paired with a zesty tartar sauce. Perfect for any occasion, it's the comfort food you've been craving!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 3 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 large calamari cleaned and cut into rings of 3 cm (about 1 inch)
• 180 g wheat flour sifted
• 180 g corn flour
• 90 g fine semolina
• 1 tbsp mustard powder
• 1 tbsp dried tarragon
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• 3 tbsp finely chopped pickled cucumber
• 3 tbsp chopped capers
• 1/2 medium onion finely chopped
• 1/2 lime (or lemon) juiced
• 350 g mayonnaise
• 1 ½ tbsp finely chopped dill
• to taste pepper

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Blender
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a mixing bowl, combine wheat flour, corn flour, fine semolina, mustard powder, dried tarragon, and smoked paprika powder. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
2. Take each piece of calamari and immerse it in the prepared batter, ensuring it is well coated. This step is crucial for achieving that wonderful crunch.
3. Next, heat a deep pan over high heat and fill it with plenty of sunflower oil. You want enough oil for the calamari to float as it fries.
4. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the battered calamari in batches. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, usually taking a few minutes.
5. As you fry, keep a close eye on the color. You’re looking for a rich golden hue. Once done, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
6. For the tartar sauce, combine pickled cucumber, capers, onion, and lime juice in a blender. Blend until a smooth paste is formed.
7. Transfer this paste to a kitchen towel, wrap it tightly, and press it firmly to remove any excess liquid.
8. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, the prepared paste, dill, and a touch of pepper. Stir until well combined.
9. Finally, serve the hot calamari with the freshly made tartar sauce on the side. The combination is a match made in culinary heaven!

Notes

• Tip 1: While frying, avoid shaking the pan so that the calamari acquires a nice crust and does not dissolve.
• Tip 2: For an even more amazing taste, we can add a little lemon zest to the breading.
• Tip 3: You can store the tartar sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.