Crispy Five-fragrance Calamari & Dipping Sauce

Fried Calamari with Two Dipping Sauces: Marinara and Aioli

Fried Calamari with Marinara Sauce

Fried calamari is a delicious and crispy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender calamari rings coated in a crispy batter and served with a tangy marinara sauce. The combination of the delicate calamari and the rich marinara sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Marinara sauce, for dipping

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
3. Dip the calamari rings into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the heated oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve the fried calamari hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

This crispy calamari recipe is incredibly easy to make and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of the tender calamari and the flavorful marinara sauce is simply irresistible.

Fried Calamari with Aioli Sauce

If you’re looking for a different dipping sauce to accompany your fried calamari, try this aioli sauce. The rich and creamy aioli adds a burst of flavor to the crispy calamari, taking it to a whole new level.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Refrigerate the aioli sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the fried calamari hot with the homemade aioli sauce for dipping.

The aioli sauce adds a creamy and tangy element to the fried calamari, complementing the crispy texture perfectly. It’s a simple yet delightful combination that will leave you craving for more.

Overall, fried calamari is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be served as an appetizer or even as a main course. Whether you prefer to dip your calamari in marinara sauce or aioli sauce, both options offer a burst of flavor that enhances the crispy calamari rings. This seafood delicacy is easy to prepare and will surely impress your friends and family.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Nutrition Facts: (Per Serving)

• Calories: 360
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 400mg
• Sodium: 980mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g
• Protein: 28g

Tips: To ensure your calamari rings turn out crispy, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the flour mixture into it – if it sizzles and immediately rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Additionally, do not overcrowd the frying pan or pot with calamari rings as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in less crispy calamari.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?

A: While fresh calamari is recommended for the best results, you can use frozen calamari if fresh is not available. Thaw the frozen calamari rings completely before coating them in the flour mixture and frying.

Q: Can I use a different dipping sauce?

A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces according to your preference. Some popular options include tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, and sweet chili sauce.

Q: Can I bake the calamari instead of frying?

A: Yes, you can bake the calamari in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip the calamari rings halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

Enjoy this delicious fried calamari recipe with either the tangy marinara sauce or the creamy aioli sauce for a delightful seafood experience!