MediterraneanAppetizer

Crispy Fried Calamari

Prep
40 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
50 minutes
Serves
4
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Ingredients

Units
  • 1 lb calamari tubes, cleaned
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut the cleaned calamari tubes into 3/4-inch thick rings.

  2. 2

    Stir 1 teaspoon of kosher salt into 1/2 cup of milk. Add the calamari rings to the salted milk solution and refrigerate for 30 minutes to tenderize.

  3. 3

    In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.

  4. 4

    Remove the calamari from the milk and coat the rings in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Place coated rings in a colander and let sit for a few minutes while the oil heats.

  5. 5

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350-365°F. To test without a thermometer, drop one ring in the oil; gentle bubbles should form immediately and the calamari should float to the top.

  6. 6

    Fry the calamari in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot.

  7. 7

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Season immediately with salt.

  8. 8

    Serve hot with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice.