Crispy Spanish Calamari Delight 🦑✨

Recipe: Deep Fried Calamari (Simple)

Overview:

This recipe for Deep Fried Calamari brings the flavors of Spain right to your kitchen! With a crispy coating and tender calamari, it’s reminiscent of the dishes served in Spanish restaurants. The secret to achieving that perfect texture lies in the cooking method – either quick frying or slow simmering. If you’re a fan of fried calamari, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 minute
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Serves: 2 mains or 4 appetizer portions
• Cuisine: Spanish, European
• Dietary: No Shellfish, Healthy
• Keywords: Deep Fried, Easy, < 30 Mins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 – 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Calamari:

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   • Begin by cleaning and slicing the calamari into rings.
   • Dredge the calamari rings in cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.

2. Preparation Tip:

   • If you’re preparing ahead, you can stop at this point and refrigerate the coated calamari rings until you’re ready to fry them.

3. Heat the Oil:

   • In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the oil to a fairly high temperature. You want it hot enough to quickly fry the calamari to a golden crispiness.

4. Fry the Calamari:

   • Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry the rings for about 1 minute or until they turn a beautiful golden color. The quick frying ensures they remain tender inside.

5. Drain and Season:

   • Once the calamari rings are fried to perfection, remove them from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
   • While still hot, lightly sprinkle the fried calamari with salt to enhance the flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Arrange the crispy calamari rings on a serving platter.
   • Serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
   • Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic mayo or marinara, for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 191.5
• Fat: 1.1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.3g
• Cholesterol: 176.2mg
• Sodium: 36.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 31.5g
  • Fiber: 0.3g
  • Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 11.9g

Recipe Notes:

• For a healthier twist, you can opt to bake the calamari instead of deep frying them. Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange the coated calamari rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• Experiment with different seasonings in the cornstarch coating to add extra flavor. You can try adding a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• If you prefer a lighter coating, you can mix cornstarch with breadcrumbs or panko crumbs for added crunch.
• Be cautious when working with hot oil to avoid any accidents. Always use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and avoid overcrowding the frying pan to ensure even cooking.
• Enjoy this Deep Fried Calamari as a delightful appetizer or as a main dish served with a fresh salad or your favorite side dishes. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or for a cozy night in with family and friends. Buon appetito! 🦑🍋