Indulge in the delicious flavors of the sea with these crispy calamari bites. Tender squid rings are coated in a light and crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy tartar sauce, they make for a perfect appetizer or snack.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound squid rings, cleaned and dried
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Squid:
- Rinse the squid under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- If not already done, slice the bodies into rings about 1/2 inch thick, leaving the tentacles whole.
- Make the Tartar Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, onion, parsley, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Bread the Calamari:
- Dip each squid piece in the flour mixture, then the egg, and back into the flour mixture.
- Shake off excess and place on a clean plate.
- Prepare for Frying:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a plate with paper towels for draining.
- Fry the Calamari:
- Carefully lower breaded calamari into the hot oil in batches.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Maintain Oil Temperature:
- Allow oil to return to 350°F between batches.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain oil temperature.
- Season Immediately:
- Sprinkle the fried calamari with a little salt while still hot.
- Prepare for Serving:
- Arrange the crispy calamari on a serving platter.
- Place the tartar sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while the calamari is hot and crispy.
- Encourage guests to squeeze fresh lemon over their calamari and enjoy with the tartar sauce.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Calamari Bites
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F for crispy, not greasy, Crispy Calamari Bites,
- Don’t Overcook: Calamari cooks quickly. Overcooking will result in a rubbery texture.
- Consistent Sizes: Try to keep the calamari pieces similar in size for even cooking.
- Drain Well: Allow excess oil to drain on paper towels to keep the calamari crispy.
- Serve Immediately: Calamari is best enjoyed fresh and hot from the fryer.
Nutritional Considerations
- Crispy Calamari Bites is low in calories and high in protein when not fried.
- The frying process adds calories and fat.
- Tartar sauce is high in fat due to the mayonnaise base.
- Consider serving with a side salad for a more balanced meal.
Variations
- Spicy Crispy Calamari Bites: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the breading.
- Baked Calamari: For a healthier option, try baking the breaded calamari at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Aioli Alternative: Serve with garlic aioli instead of tartar sauce for a different flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
- Beverage: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light beer complements the dish well.
- Side Dish: Serve with a fresh Greek salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Crispy Calamari Bites with Tartar Sauce is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings the taste of seaside dining to your home. The contrast between the crispy exterior and tender squid, paired with the creamy, tangy tartar sauce, creates a delightful culinary experience. While it requires some preparation and attention to detail, the result is well worth the effort. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or simply treating yourself, these crispy calamari bites are sure to impress. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and savor the flavors of this classic seafood dish!
