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Fried calamari

battered, deep fried squid
Print Recipe
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Greek

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Squid tubes See #1

Batter

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper white for prettier presentation
  • 2/3 cup cold water
  • 3-4 cups oil for frying - enough for 2" in your pot

Instructions
 

Squid Game

  • Cut along one side of the tube and lay it flat.
  • Lightly score the inside with a small knife. Parallel lines 1" apart. Do this on an angle so you end up with a diamond pattern.
  • Cut the squid into 2"x1" pieces

Batter

  • Whisk dry ingredients in a large bowl.
  • Whisk in water until smooth.
  • Refrigerate for 30 minutes. See #2

Frying

  • Heat oil to 325F
  • Whisk the batter again, and add all the squid.
  • Toss the squid to ensure they're fully coated.
  • Fry tube pieces in 3 separate batches. 3 minutes (baby squid for 2).
  • Place on a paper towel-lined tray.
  • Increase temp to 390F.
  • Fry again for 90 seconds - deep golden and crispy. This can be done in 2 batches.
  • Place the fried calamari in a paper towel-lined bowl.
  • Season with additional salt & pepper to taste.
  • Serve with a dip like tzatziki, your favourite aioli, or lemon wedges

Notes

  1. Or 1.5 lbs medium whole baby squid, cleaned. If you're squeamish about gutting, stick with the tubes. The baby squid is more tender.
  2. Resting lets gluten form. The batter will stick better, and will crisp up better when fried.