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Homemade Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce photo

Best Fried Calamari Recipe with Tartar Sauce

This Fried Calamari is a seafood delight! Crispy and tender, served with a zesty tartar sauce, it's perfect for any occasion!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Calamari:
  • 6 large calamari Cleaned and cut into rings about 3 cm (1 inch)
  • 180 g wheat flour Shifted for a lighter batter
  • 180 g corn flour Adds crispiness to the coating
  • 90 g 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
  • to taste Salt and pepper 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
  • 350 g mayonnaise Base of the sauce, making it creamy
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped dill Fresh herb flavor
  • to taste Pepper Enhancing the flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Serving Platter

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!
  6. 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.
  7. 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.