Calamari Special

Crispy, golden perfection meets zesty indulgence with this irresistible Calamari Special recipe! Featuring tender, fresh calamari soaked in buttermilk for ultimate softness, then dredged in a seasoned flour and cornstarch coating spiked with garlic powder and paprika, each bite delivers a light, crunchy texture. Quick-fried to golden brown perfection in bubbling hot oil, these delectable rings and tentacles are paired with a tangy, garlicky lemon aioli dip that will keep your taste buds dancing. Garnished with fresh parsley and served alongside vibrant lemon wedges, this restaurant-quality appetizer comes together in just 30 minutes at home. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a seafood treat, this Calamari Special is your go-to recipe for flavor-packed indulgence!

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Fresh calamari
• 120 grams All-purpose flour
• 30 grams Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 240 milliliters Buttermilk
• 750 milliliters Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 120 grams Mayonnaise
• 15 milliliters Fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 10 grams Fresh parsley (chopped)
• 4 pieces Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Clean the calamari thoroughly by separating the tentacles and cutting the calamari tube into 1/2-inch rings. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and calamari rings and tentacles. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes to tenderize.

Step 3

In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Remove the calamari from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the calamari in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 5

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).

Step 6

Carefully fry the calamari in small batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.

Step 7

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 8

To make the lemon aioli dip, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 9

Transfer the fried calamari to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and the prepared lemon aioli dip.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1867.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8501.9

Total Fat 852.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 121.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 1309.9mg	0%
Sodium 3131.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 182.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.7g	0%
Total Sugars 16.2g
Protein 100.4g	0%

Vitamin D 128.7IU	0%
Calcium 533.9mg	0%
Iron 10.1mg	0%
Potassium 2061.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 87.1%

Protein: 4.6%

Carbs: 8.3%