Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup ice-cold water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Special Equipment Needed:
- Deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the ice-cold water to the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
4. Dip the calamari rings into the batter, shaking off any excess, and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
5. Fry the calamari in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the fried calamari from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
7. Serve the tempura fried calamari hot with lemon wedges on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people as an appetizer.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 240
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 13g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Rice flour can be used instead of cornstarch for a crispier texture.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the batter for a spicy twist.
- Serve the tempura fried calamari with a dipping sauce made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped herbs.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the calamari to ensure a crispy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pot or deep-fryer with too many calamari rings at once, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy calamari.
Storage Instructions:
- Tempura fried calamari is best served fresh and hot, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the tempura fried calamari, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the tempura fried calamari on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a simple yet elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro can be used as a garnish for the tempura fried calamari.
Pairings:
- Serve the tempura fried calamari with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing pairing.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make great side dishes for tempura fried calamari.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the batter is too thick, add a little more ice-cold water until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the calamari rings are sticking together in the oil, use a fork or chopsticks to separate them.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be careful when working with hot oil, and never leave it unattended.
- Make sure the calamari is fully cooked before serving to avoid foodborne illness.
Food History:
- Tempura is a Japanese dish consisting of battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables. It is believed to have been introduced to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- Tempura fried calamari is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a mild seafood flavor and a hint of saltiness from the batter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tempura fried calamari makes a great appetizer or snack, and can also be served as part of a larger seafood platter.
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Region: Japanese