Fried Calamari with Remoulade Sauce Drizzled with Balsamic Syrup
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this exquisite Fried Calamari recipe, which combines the tender texture of squid with the rich flavors of a homemade remoulade sauce and a sweet, tangy balsamic syrup. With its crispy exterior and zesty undertones, this dish serves as an impressive snack or a delightful addition to any lunch spread. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, these Cajun-style calamari will surely impress your guests.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Servings: 6
Description
The highlight of this dish lies in the balsamic vinegar, which is carefully reduced to create a syrup that enhances the flavors of the fried calamari. The crispy, golden rings of squid are generously drizzled with the syrup, giving each bite a tantalizing kick of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the Cajun seasoning.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 858.1 |
| Total Fat | 74.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 148.6 mg |
| Sodium | 253.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Total Sugars | 6.6 g |
| Protein | 12.6 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Unbleached all-purpose flour |
| 1½ tsp | Ground cumin |
| 1 tsp | Chili powder |
| 2 tsp | Garlic powder |
| ½ tsp | Paprika |
| ½ tsp | Fresh coarse ground black pepper |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1 | Egg |
| 1 lb | Fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings |
| Oil | For frying (enough to fill the skillet about ½ inch deep) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Balsamic Syrup: Begin by pouring balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and placing it over medium heat. Allow the vinegar to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and reaches a syrupy consistency. This should take about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside to cool.
-
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the unbleached all-purpose flour, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, coarse ground black pepper, and salt until evenly mixed. This will create a flavorful coating for the calamari.
-
Prepare the Calamari: In another bowl, crack and beat the egg until it is well combined. Take each ring of calamari, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the calamari into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off before returning it to the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dredging method will help achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough oil to fill the pan about ½ inch deep and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready for frying.
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Fry the Calamari: Carefully add the calamari in small batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the calamari turns golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Season and Serve: While the calamari are still hot, season them lightly with additional salt to taste. Arrange the crispy calamari on a large serving platter and generously drizzle the balsamic syrup over the top for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite remoulade sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for Success
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the calamari to prevent them from becoming greasy.
- Leftover calamari can be reheated in an oven to regain their crispiness; avoid microwaving them, as this will make them chewy.
Enjoy this exquisite Fried Calamari with Remoulade Sauce Drizzled with Balsamic Syrup as a flavorful snack or a vibrant addition to your lunch table. The delightful combination of crispy calamari and tangy-sweet balsamic syrup is sure to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
