Fried Calamari
Ingredients
- 1 lb squid, fresh or frozen cleaned, defrosted if frozen and drained
- 1 cup all purpose flour sifted
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- light oil for frying light olive oil or grape seed or avocado
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup buttermilk or milk+1/2 tsp salt mixed
- 1 tsp mild paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano leaves
- ¾ tsp ground black pepper
- ⅓-½ tsp cayenne or other hot chilli powder
- sea salt as needed
- 1 fresh lemon, sliced to serve
Instructions
- Slice the cleaned calamari tubes into ¾-inch thick rings. Add the squid rings to a bowl along with the buttermilk or salted milk. Mix well and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne, combine well.
- Place a large colander over a bowl or sink. Using a pair of tongs, scoop some of the calamari rings, shake the excess buttermilk off and lightly toss the calamari in the flour mixture. The calamari should be evenly coated( see image above). Place the coated calamari in the colander. Repeat with the rest of the calamari. Allow the coated calamari to rest for about 7-10 minutes before frying.
- Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a small sauce pan(about 2 cups of oil)about 350℉-365℉. (See FAQS for testing method). Once your oil is ready at the temp desired. Gently place some of the calamari in the oil without overcrowding and fry for about 2½- 3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried calamari on to a plate lined with paper towel. Immediately season with sea salt. Repeat with rest of the calamari.
- Serve right away with lemon wedges.
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