If you’re a fan of seafood, then you’ve probably indulged in the crispy, flavorful goodness that is fried calamari at your favorite restaurant. But did you know that you can easily recreate this restaurant-worthy dish at home? With just a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying delicious fried calamari in no time.
To start, you’ll need to gather some ingredients. You’ll need calamari rings (either fresh or frozen), all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oil for frying. In terms of equipment, you’ll need a deep fryer or a large pot for frying, as well as a slotted spoon or tongs for flipping and removing the calamari.
The first step is to prepare the calamari. If using frozen calamari, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels. If using fresh calamari, clean it by removing the head, gut, and beak. Cut the body into rings, and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Next, prepare the coating for the calamari. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The cornstarch will help create a light and crispy coating on the calamari rings.
Heat the oil in the fryer or pot to 375°F (190°C). While the oil is heating, dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the calamari rings into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the calamari for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season the fried calamari with a little more salt and pepper, if desired.
Serve the fried calamari immediately with a side of marinara sauce or aioli for dipping. You can also squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the calamari for an extra burst of flavor.
With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can easily recreate restaurant-worthy fried calamari at home. So next time you’re craving this delicious seafood dish, skip the trip to the restaurant and try making it yourself. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is!