Calamari, or squid, is a favorite dish in the ethnic cuisines of the Mediterranean. It is a popular appetizer, served with a variety of dipping sauces which add robust and often spicy flavor. When deep fried, calamari combines a smooth texture with a crisp exterior. To make deep fried calamari, follow these steps.
Instructions
1. Gather the ingredients. The calamari should be pre-cut into rings, rinsed and patted dry with paper towels. Other ingredients include beaten eggs, breading material and flour. The can be breadcrumbs, cornmeal or pre-packaged breading mix. Season the breading with salt, pepper and other seasonings to taste, such as garlic, cayenne and paprika. Combine the flour with the breading material or use separately, depending on taste preference.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in the deep fryer to 350 to 375 degrees F. The actual temperature depends on the thickness of the calamari rings and the number of rings cooked at the same time; use hotter oil for more calamari.
3. Dip the calamari into the beaten egg mixture. Shake the extra egg off of the calamari and then coat with the breading material. If using the flour separate from the breading material, dredge in the flour, dip the calamari in egg, then follow with the breading material. Bread several calamari at same time so they will cook together in the deep fryer.
4. Place the calamari in . Cook approximately 1 to 4 minutes until the calamari is golden brown. Actual cooking time depends on the thickness of the calamari, the breading material, the oil, the number of calamari and the deep fryer. Do not overcook the calamari as it will become tough.
5. Remove the calamari from the deep fryer with a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels. Serve with a favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara. Garnish with parsley or lemon slices.
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