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Crispy Fried Calamari Rings Recipe Easy Homemade Zesty Lemon Flavor

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy fried calamari rings with a zesty lemon flavor, perfect as a snack or appetizer with a golden crunchy crust and tender squid inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh calamari rings, cleaned and patted dry
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, enough to fill pan about 2 inches deep
  • 1–2 fresh lemons, zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound (450g) of fresh calamari rings and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Place the calamari in a bowl with 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or buttermilk and let soak for 15 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Whisk together.
  4. Beat 1 large egg in a small bowl.
  5. Pour vegetable or canola oil into a pan about 2 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer.
  6. Remove calamari from milk, letting excess drip off, then dip into beaten egg, followed by dredging in the flour mixture. Press gently to adhere coating.
  7. Carefully place a few coated rings into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove fried calamari with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and immediately sprinkle with sea salt, lemon zest, and a little fresh lemon juice.
  9. Arrange calamari on a platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) between batches to maintain crispiness. Pat calamari dry thoroughly to avoid oil splatter and soggy coating. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry calamari for 2-3 minutes only to avoid rubbery texture. Season immediately after frying with salt and lemon zest for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy fried calamari, calamari rings, fried squid, lemon calamari, appetizer, seafood snack, easy fried calamari

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/crispy-fried-calamari-rings-recipe-easy-homemade-zesty-lemon-flavor/