This Calamares recipe is a delightful and irresistible way to enjoy your favorite squid, transforming it into a crispy, golden seafood appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Known for its tender texture and mild flavor, squid becomes a star in this dish when coated in a light, seasoned batter and fried to perfection. The key to achieving the best taste and texture is serving it fresh and hot, right out of the fryer, when the coating is at its crispiest and the squid is tender and juicy.
Calamares is not just a fantastic seafood appetizer; it also makes for a satisfying main dish or an excellent pulutan (finger food) to pair with drinks. Its crispy exterior and succulent interior make it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in. For the ultimate experience, pair this dish with a glass of hard liquor or an ice-cold beer. The refreshing contrast of the drink complements the rich, savory flavors of the calamares, creating a perfect balance.
To elevate your calamares experience, serve it with a variety of dipping sauces. A classic choice is spicy vinegar, which adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the fried squid. Another popular option is toyo mansi—a simple yet flavorful mix of soy sauce, calamansi, and sometimes chili—that enhances the dish with its salty, citrusy notes. You can also experiment with other sauces, such as garlic aioli or sweet chili, to suit your taste preferences.
What makes this Calamares recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients—fresh squid, flour, eggs, and seasonings—you can create a dish that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to enjoy a plate of crispy, golden calamares that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Prep Time:
15 minsCook Time:
3 minsTotal Time:
18 mins
Servings6
Calories399
Best Season
Suitable throughout the year
Description
This Calamares recipe is a delightful and irresistible way to enjoy your favorite squid, transforming it into a crispy, golden seafood appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
3/4kg squid (around 2 inches in diameter, sliced into rings)
1cup flour
1cup cornstarch
2 eggs (beaten)
1cup breadcrumbs
1tsp salt
1/2tsp ground black pepper (divided)
1/2tsp garlic powder
cooking oil (to fry)
Instructions
Wash and clean the squid before slicing it into rings.
Place the sliced squid in a mixing bowl and season with salt, pepper powder, and garlic powder. Let it set for several minutes.
In a separate bowl, prepare the flour and corn starch for coating, then add a pinch of salt and pepper powder, then combine.
Crack two raw eggs into a container and whisk them together.
Add cooking oil to a pot and heat it.
Dredge the calamares slices in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs.
Deep-fry the coated squid directly in the preheated oil until the color of the coating turns brown.
Do not overcook the squid. Fry it for about 3 minutes over medium heat.
Remove the squid from the fryer. Use a strainer to drain excess oil, then transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels.
All done. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Happy Eating! Share and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories399kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat9.1g14%
Saturated Fat1.1g6%
Cholesterol62mg21%
Sodium699mg30%
Potassium83mg3%
Total Carbohydrate50.2g17%
Dietary Fiber1.7g7%
Sugars1.4g
Protein25.5g51%
Calcium 4 mg
Iron 13 mg
Vitamin D 29 IU
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.