There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy piece of fried calamari. The way the warm, tender squid gives way to a light crunch sends my taste buds into a happy dance! I first discovered this delightful recipe during a summer gathering, when a friend shared her secret to restaurant-quality calamari at home. This dish not only elevates any meal but also transforms ordinary evenings into delightful culinary adventures.
The beauty of making fried calamari lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can whip up a show-stopping appetizer that will leave friends and family begging for more. Imagine serving these golden-brown morsels with a squeeze of fresh lemon and creamy tartar sauce—it’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone together.
So, if you’re bored with fast food and craving something fresh and homemade, let’s dive into this delicious fried calamari recipe that promises flavor, crunch, and smiles all around!
Why will you love Fried Calamari?
Crispy Perfection: Each bite of calamari delivers a delightful crunch that’s impossible to resist.
Flavorful Marinade: Soaking in buttermilk enhances the tender squid, adding depth to every piece.
Quick and Simple: With just a few steps, you’ll have a gourmet appetizer ready in under an hour!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for parties or family dinners, it’s a dish that always impresses.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair with lemon and tartar sauce for a classic touch or get creative with your favorite dips.
If you’re looking for more fun seafood recipes, check out our delightful shrimp taco recipe for another crowd favorite!
Fried Calamari Ingredients
• Get ready for a delicious adventure!
For the Marinade
• Cleaned squid or calamari – This is the star of the dish; fresh is best for a tender bite.
• Buttermilk – Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the squid and adds a hint of tang.
For the Batter
• All-purpose flour – This creates a crispy coating; you can substitute with a gluten-free flour if needed.
• White rice flour – Adds an extra crunch to the coating; feel free to adjust the ratio for desired texture.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; if using table salt, reduce the amount slightly.
• Garlic powder – Gives a warm, savory flavor; swap with onion powder for a different twist.
• Ground white pepper – Offers a mild heat; black pepper can be used for a bolder flavor.
For Frying and Serving
• Vegetable or canola oil – Use for frying; high smoke point oils create that golden-brown perfection.
• Lemon wedges – Perfect for squeezing over the fried calamari, balancing the richness beautifully.
• Tartar sauce – A classic companion; try homemade versions for a personal touch.
Dive into this delicious fried calamari recipe and treat yourself to a homemade version that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Fried Calamari
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Thaw and Prepare: Thaw 1 pound of cleaned squid or calamari if it’s frozen. Cut the squid bodies into 1/2-inch rings, leaving the tentacles whole. In a medium bowl, mix with 1 cup of buttermilk, and let it refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
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Heat the Oil: In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat 6 cups of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375ºF. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200ºF and set a wire rack over a baking sheet.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of white rice flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper until well combined.
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Drain the Calamari: Drain the marinated calamari in a colander. Use your hands to gently agitate the squid, ensuring as much buttermilk as possible is removed.
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Coat the Calamari: Take about 1/2 cup of calamari and toss it in the flour mixture until nicely coated. Separate the pieces with your hands and shake off any excess flour in a fine-mesh strainer.
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Fry the Calamari: Carefully add the calamari to the hot oil, stirring immediately to keep the pieces from clumping together. Fry until the calamari are just cooked through and light golden brown, about 1 to 1½ minutes.
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Drain and Season: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried calamari to the wire rack and season lightly with salt. Keep them warm in the oven while you prepare the next batch.
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Repeat and Serve: As the oil heats back up, repeat the breading process for the next batch. Once all are fried, serve them with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Calamari are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious appetizer without the last-minute rush! You can marinate the cleaned squid in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator to maintain its tender texture. Additionally, you can combine the dry ingredients (flour, rice flour, and spices) in a bowl and keep it sealed in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated calamari in the flour mixture and fry them fresh. This way, your calamari will be just as crispy and delightful, saving you time while still delivering restaurant-quality results!
Tips for the Best Fried Calamari
• Proper Thawing: Always thaw squid or calamari completely before cooking. This ensures even frying and prevents toughness.
• Buttermilk Magic: Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade! It’s crucial for tenderizing the squid and enhancing flavor.
• Fry Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature. If it’s too low, the calamari will be greasy; too high, they may burn before cooking through.
• Small Batches: Fry calamari in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve that desired golden crunch.
• Quick Cooking: Don’t overcook! Fried calamari should only take 1 to 1½ minutes to become perfectly golden and tender.
• Season Immediately: Season with salt right after frying to ensure the flavor adheres to every tasty piece of fried calamari.
How to Store and Freeze Fried Calamari
Fridge: Store leftover fried calamari in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fried calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the calamari on a wire rack at 400ºF for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Quality Check: Ensure the fried calamari is thoroughly cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture during freezing.
Fried Calamari Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting variations for a delightful twist on your fried calamari experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a heat boost. Enjoy a fiery crunch that will wake up your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into your flour mixture for added flavor depth. These subtle notes will create a wonderful aroma while frying.
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Panko Crunch: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness. The texture will elevate each bite into a satisfying crunch!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for a blend of almond flour and cornstarch. This variation maintains the crunch while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Zesty Citrus: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the batter for a fresh, citrusy brightness. It enhances the overall flavor experience and makes each bite feel refreshing.
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Asian Twist: Use sesame seeds in the flour mixture for a nutty flavor. These tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and subtle sesame richness.
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Blackened Style: Dust the calamari with Cajun seasoning before frying for a spicy, smoky taste. This robust flavor profiles add an adventurous kick to your dish.
These variations not only personalize your fried calamari but also keep everyone at the table eager to enjoy something different!
What to Serve with Fried Calamari?
Imagine enjoying crispy, golden calamari paired with delightful sides that enhance its flavor and create a memorable meal experience.
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Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli provides a perfect contrast, adding richness while enhancing the calamari’s savory notes. The smoothness complements the crunchy texture beautifully.
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Crispy French Fries: Golden, crispy fries are a classic pairing. Their salty crunch matches the calamari, creating a satisfying bite every time.
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Tossed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate and adds a refreshing element to your meal. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
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Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers offer a smoky flavor and hearty texture, balancing the crunch of calamari while providing vibrancy.
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Mango Salsa: A fruity mango salsa introduces a sweet, tropical zing that contrasts beautifully with the savory squid. The bright colors and flavors are sure to impress your dinner guests!
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, elevating the flavors with its acidity and refreshing finish. Perfect for a warm evening!
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a sweet-tart end to your meal, echoing the bright notes of lemon served with the calamari.
With these perfect accompaniments, your fried calamari will shine as the star of a delightful feast!
Fried Calamari Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best squid or calamari?
Absolutely! When selecting squid or calamari, look for fresh specimens with a moist sheen and a mild ocean scent. Avoid anything with dark spots or a strong off-putting odor. If you’re buying frozen, ensure it’s solid and well-packaged, as freezer burn can affect quality.
How can I store leftover fried calamari?
Very! Store any leftover fried calamari in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its flavor, though it may lose some of its crunch. To reheat and restore that delightful crispiness, spread the calamari on a wire rack and bake at 400ºF for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze fried calamari, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze fried calamari, first, allow it to cool completely. Lay the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or container. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake at 400ºF until hot, about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my calamari turns out tough or chewy?
No worries! If your calamari is tough or chewy, it may have been overcooked, as it cooks quickly—1 to 1.5 minutes is all you need. To prevent this, ensure your oil is hot enough (375ºF) before frying and avoid frying too many pieces at once. Also, the buttermilk marinade is essential for tenderizing; don’t skip that step!
Is fried calamari safe for pets or those with allergies?
Absolutely! Fried calamari can be safe for pets in small amounts, but be cautious of seasoning and ingredients like garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. If someone in your household has shellfish allergies, it’s best to avoid serving this dish or consult with your physician about their dietary restrictions. Always prioritize food safety and personal awareness when serving seafood dishes.
Fried Calamari Made Easy: Crunchy Bites That Wow
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw cleaned squid if frozen. Cut squid bodies into 1/2-inch rings, leaving tentacles whole. Mix with buttermilk and let refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375ºF.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, white rice flour, kosher salt, garlic powder, and ground white pepper until well combined.
- Drain the marinated calamari in a colander and gently agitate to remove excess buttermilk.
- Toss calamari in the flour mixture until nicely coated, shaking off excess flour.
- Add calamari to the hot oil, stirring to keep pieces from clumping, and fry until light golden brown, about 1 to 1½ minutes.
- Transfer fried calamari to the wire rack, season lightly with salt, and keep warm in the oven.
- Repeat frying process with remaining calamari and serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.