Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce
Fried calamari is one of those dishes that can transport you straight to a seaside restaurant, with the sound of waves and the scent of saltwater in the air. This Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce is a delightful twist on a classic that will impress your friends and family. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, paired perfectly with a zesty tartar sauce, this dish is perfect for appetizers, parties, or a fun family dinner. Let’s dive in!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this fried calamari apart is the unique blend of flours and spices used in the batter, which creates a light yet crunchy coating that enhances the natural flavor of the squid. The addition of mustard powder, smoked paprika, and dried tarragon adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. And let’s not forget about the homemade tartar sauce, which is fresh, tangy, and the perfect complement to the fried rings of squid. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Ingredient Breakdown
To make this exceptional dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 large calamari: Cleaned and cut into rings about 3 cm (1 inch).
- 180g wheat flour: Shifted for a lighter batter.
- 180g corn flour: Adds crispiness to the coating.
- 90g fine semolina: For extra crunch.
- 1 tbsp mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang.
- 1 tbsp dried tarragon: Enhances flavor with a hint of anise.
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder: Gives a warm, smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
For the tartar sauce:
- 3 tbsp finely chopped pickled cucumber: Adds a nice crunch and tang.
- 3 tbsp chopped capers: Provides a burst of flavor.
- 1/2 medium onion: Finely chopped for sweetness.
- 1/2 lime (or lemon): Juiced for acidity.
- 350g mayonnaise: Base of the sauce, making it creamy.
- 1 tbsp finely chopped dill: Fresh herb flavor.
- Pepper: To taste, enhancing the flavor.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- Mixing bowls: For combining the flour and spices, as well as the ingredients for the tartar sauce.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the dry ingredients smoothly.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the calamari to perfection.
- Slotted spoon: To remove the calamari from the oil.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil from the fried calamari.
- Serving platter: To present your beautifully fried calamari.
Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce
Start by making the tartar sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped pickled cucumber, chopped capers, finely chopped onion, lime (or lemon) juice, and finely chopped dill. Season with pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the calamari.
Step 2: Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as moisture can make the batter soggy.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wheat flour, corn flour, semolina, mustard powder, dried tarragon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will provide a flavorful and crispy coating for the calamari.
Step 4: Coat the Calamari
Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate. This step is important for achieving that crispy texture.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to submerge the calamari. The oil should reach around 180°C (350°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of the batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go!
Step 6: Fry the Calamari
Carefully place a few calamari rings into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the calamari is fried, serve immediately on a platter with the chilled tartar sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your homemade Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Wheat flour: Can be replaced with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
- Corn flour: Substitute with rice flour for a different texture.
- Fine semolina: Use regular semolina or even breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Dried tarragon: Omit or replace with dried oregano for a different herbaceous note.
- Mayonnaise: Use vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative.
Cook’s Notes
Fried calamari is best enjoyed fresh, but here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the calamari from becoming greasy.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan; this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy calamari.
- Feel free to adjust the spices in the batter to suit your taste preferences.
- For an extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers, follow these guidelines to ensure your calamari remains tasty:
- Store any leftover calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To freeze, place the cooked calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, place the calamari in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Questions People Ask
Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen calamari. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating it in the flour mixture.
What can I serve with fried calamari?
Fried calamari pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, fresh salads, or even as a topping on pasta dishes for an elegant meal.
How do I know when the calamari is fully cooked?
Fried calamari cooks quickly; it should be cooked for about 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown. Overcooking can make it tough and chewy.
Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The tartar sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Bring It Home
This Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make and offers a delightful crunch with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, this calamari dish will impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s fry up some amazing calamari that will leave you craving more! Enjoy!
Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by making the tartar sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped pickled cucumber, chopped capers, finely chopped onion, lime (or lemon) juice, and finely chopped dill. Season with pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the calamari.
- Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as moisture can make the batter soggy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wheat flour, corn flour, semolina, mustard powder, dried tarragon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will provide a flavorful and crispy coating for the calamari.
- Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate. This step is important for achieving that crispy texture.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to submerge the calamari. The oil should reach around 180°C (350°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of the batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go!
- Carefully place a few calamari rings into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Once all the calamari is fried, serve immediately on a platter with the chilled tartar sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your homemade Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Notes
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the calamari from becoming greasy.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan; this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy calamari.
- Feel free to adjust the spices in the batter to suit your taste preferences.
- For an extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
