Crispy Fried Squid (Print-Friendly Version)

Golden squid rings in a crisp coating, served warm with marinara or a zesty dipping sauce.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 lb fresh, cleaned squid, sliced into rings.
02 - 1/2 cup buttermilk (or whole milk if preferred).
03 - 3/4 cup plain flour.
04 - 1/2 cup fine cornmeal.
05 - 1 tsp of salt.
06 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper.

# Steps:

01 - Take out the insides and head from the body. Remove the hard beak from the tentacle area. Rinse well under cold water.
02 - Combine sliced squid with milk and salt. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
03 - Warm oil to 365-375°F. Put paper towels on a wire cooling rack to set aside.
04 - Stir flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the drained squid pieces, a few at a time.
05 - Fry small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Rest them on the paper towel-lined rack.
06 - Serve hot right away with lemon aioli or marinara on the side.

# Notes:

01 - Use a low oven (150-170°F) to keep them from cooling between frying batches.
02 - Purchase 1.25-1.5 lb whole squid to make up for trimmings.
03 - Make lemon aioli: Mix mayo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.

Go Back