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Fried Calamari

Fresh calamari rings are tenderized in buttermilk, seasoned with garlic and paprika, and fried in crispy panko breadcrumbs. Fried calamari done right is full of flavor and irresistible!
Prep Time1 hour 5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 231kcal
Author: Eden Westbrook

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. squid bodies cut into ½ inch rings
  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk
  • 1 ½ cup all purpose flour
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

  • Place calamari into a large bowl and pour buttermilk over it. Let rest for 1 hour to overnight to tenderize.
  • Preheat oil in a large pot or deep fryer set to 350 degrees F (176 degrees C). Make sure it's at least an inch deep, but no more than ½ the pot full.
  • In a medium bowl, add the flour, panko, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk well to combine.
  • Take the calamari out of the buttermilk and directly into the flour using a fork or tongs. Use a separate fork or tongs to dredge the rings and coat them well in the seasoned flour. Place them on a plate in one layer.
  • When oil is up to temperature, gently place rings into the oil. Do not over crowd, this will cause the temp to go down and the calamari to become greasy. Cook for 1 ½ to 2 minutes, until the rings are golden brown.
  • With a slotted spoon or spider, scoop up calamari and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat steps 4-6 until all the calamari is finished.
  • Serve hot with aioli, marinara, or sweet chili sauces.

Nutrition

Calories: 231kcal