Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or large pot for frying
- Tongs or slotted spoon for removing calamari from oil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat.
3. Dredge the calamari rings in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the calamari to the oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the calamari from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a small pan, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and lightly browned.
7. Toss the fried calamari with the garlic and serve with lemon wedges.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 13g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cornstarch can be used instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
- Olive oil or canola oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
Variations:
- Add chopped parsley or cilantro to the garlic for extra flavor.
- Serve with a spicy mayo or aioli dipping sauce.
- Use a mixture of calamari and shrimp for a seafood medley.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the calamari to ensure a crispy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pot when frying to prevent the calamari from sticking together.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispy texture.
Storage instructions:
Garlic fried calamari is best served fresh and should not be stored for later consumption.
Reheating instructions:
Garlic fried calamari is not recommended for reheating as it will lose its crispy texture.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the garlic fried calamari on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
Garlic fried calamari pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the calamari is not crispy, the oil may not be hot enough.
- If the calamari is tough, it may have been overcooked.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the calamari is fully cooked before consuming.
- Use caution when frying with hot oil to prevent burns.
Food history:
Fried calamari is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italy and Greece.
Flavor profiles:
Garlic fried calamari has a crispy texture with a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve garlic fried calamari as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side salad.
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Region: Italian