Golden, crunchy, and perfectly tender, fried calamari is a seafood classic that’s all about technique. Lightly coated and fried quickly at high heat, this version stays crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside — just like your favorite restaurant.

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Ingredients (Servings: 4)

• 1½ pounds squid, cleaned and sliced into rings and tentacles
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Oil for frying

For serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Marinara sauce or aioli

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Tenderize the calamari:
Place squid in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and reduce chewiness.

2️⃣ Prepare the coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3️⃣ Heat the oil:
Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy pot or deep fryer.

4️⃣ Coat the calamari:
Remove squid from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Toss lightly in the flour mixture until evenly coated.

5️⃣ Fry:
Fry calamari in small batches for 1½–2 minutes until golden and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pot.

6️⃣ Drain and serve:
Transfer to paper towels, season lightly with salt, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and dipping sauce.

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📦 Amazon Must-Haves for Fried Calamari

• 🍤 Deep Fryer – Keeps oil at the perfect frying temperature.
• 🌡️ Frying Thermometer – Prevents under- or over-frying.
• 🥄 Slotted Spoon – Safely lifts calamari from hot oil.
• 🍋 Lemon Juicer – Fresh lemon makes all the difference.
• 🥣 Mixing Bowls – For dredging and prep.
• 🍽️ Serving Platter – Presents your calamari beautifully.

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💡 Helpful Tip:
If calamari cooks longer than 2–3 minutes, it turns rubbery. Keep the oil hot and fry quickly for tender, restaurant-style results.

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