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Crispy fried calamari recipe served with lemon wedges

Best Fried Calamari – Crispy, Easy & Restaurant-Style Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Fried Calamari features tender squid rings and tentacles soaked in buttermilk, coated in seasoned flour, and deep-fried until crispy and golden for an irresistible appetizer or snack.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound calamari rings and tentacles
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

  1. Place the calamari in a bowl with the buttermilk and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat 3-4 inches of vegetable oil in a large deep pot to 375°F (190°C).
  3. In a medium bowl, stir together flour, salt, paprika, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Remove each piece of calamari from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  5. Working in batches, place 8-10 pieces of squid in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Remove fried calamari from the oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining squid.
  7. Sprinkle additional salt and chopped parsley over the calamari. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Soaking in buttermilk helps tenderize the calamari and adds flavor.
  • Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot and calamari crispy.
  • Serve with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
  • For extra crispiness, double dredge the calamari by repeating the flour coating step.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: 190mg