Fried Calamari Overview: Everything You Need to Know About This Crispy Classic

Italian cuisine always offers unique, authentic flavours and characteristics. This makes it a favourite among many people worldwide, including pizza and pasta. However, have you ever heard of fried calamari before? This dish also offers a traditional Italian flavour that goes well with many other dishes. It is commonly used as an appetiser because it has a fresh seafood flavour. Read this article for a complete and clear explanation of fried calamari!

What is calamari?

Calamari is a squid dish prepared in a tasty and fun way. Although it is made from squid, it is not simply fried, but also marinated and fried until golden and crispy. It is the marinade that makes it different and unique, as it imparts a deeper and more delicate flavour in every bite. It's a popular seafood choice in many Mediterranean countries, especially Italy, where "calamari fritti" is a traditional favourite.

The process to make fried calamari is quite varied because it is very versatile and suitable for processing in different ways. Usually, the body of the squid is sliced into rings and then cooked in various styles, such as grilled, stuffed, or fried. Other preparation methods result in different textures and flavours, giving it a fresh and unique taste every time! However, it also doesn't require a lot of time to prepare, making it a go-to choice for restaurants and busy kitchens.

Squid v Calamari

Squid and calamari are two dishes that come from squid but have subtle differences. Fried squid is not the same as calamari. This is because the preparation process involves several different steps, resulting in various flavours and textures. Squid is known for its firm texture, while calamari has a softer texture and is often considered higher in quality. Because it undergoes a long marinating process, it has a smoother texture and is very flavorful when consumed, unlike squid tubes.

How do you tenderise calamari before frying?

What makes fried calamari special is its tenderness and fresh taste. It also does not have a firm or chewy texture like most squid dishes. However, there are several tricks you can use to get the best texture. Some of these tricks are avoiding overcooking and preparing it properly before it hits the hot oil. The way to do this is to marinate the squid rings in milk or buttermilk for at least half an hour. It helps soften the flesh while also giving the coating a better hold.

Additionally, you can avoid overcooking by cooking the calamari very quickly, or just a few minutes, or very slowly for a stew. However, it is highly recommended to cook fried calamari quickly using high-temperature oil in a fryer to produce a softer texture. 

What does calamari taste like?

Fried calamari has a refreshing seafood flavour and is perfect for consumption at any time, especially when served golden brown and crispy. The taste is relatively light, even with some seasoning, making it loved by many people, particularly when prepared with tender squid. When fried, the crispy coating adds a crunchy texture that balances beautifully with the tender rings inside. Fried calamari goes well with lemon juice or a very addictive dipping sauce, and can also be a delightful snack, making it an easy-to-make appetiser.

Making the perfect fried calamari

Ingredients

The beauty of fried calamari is that it requires few ingredients. All you really need are fresh calamari tubes or rings, plain flour, and a little salt and pepper. Some recipes add a touch of paprika, garlic powder, or semolina to boost the crunch. Moreover, good quality oil for frying is essential; something with a high smoke point, like sunflower or canola oil (rapeseed oil), will make fried calamari even tastier. For a flavour twist, add some dipping sauce to make your calamari even more perfect.

Cooking method

Start by patting the calamari dry after marinating or cleaning. It helps the flour coating stick properly, ensuring a delightful crunch when deep-fried. Toss the rings lightly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any extra. Then, heat the oil until it's hot but not smoking, around 180°C works well. Fry the calamari in small batches to prevent them from sticking together, cooking for only 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to keep them crisp.

Serving suggestions

Fried calamari works beautifully as an appetiser with lemon and dipping sauces on the side. It's also fantastic served on top of a fresh salad (like burrata salad), adding crunch and flavour. 

For a more filling option, pair it with chips, bread, or a glass of chilled white wine. In Italian households, it often shows up as part of a big seafood platter during festive meals. However it's served, it's guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Tips for the best crispy fried calamari

Making fried calamari is not tricky, but serving the best calamari may be a little more challenging. However, there are several tips you can try to achieve a soft texture on the inside and crisp on the outside. During the cooking process, you must make sure that the calamari is completely dry before coating it with flour to avoid a soggy final texture. The temperature of the oil is also critical because if the oil is too cool, the calamari can become greasy. Having oil that is too hot is also not good because it can burn before the calamari is cooked through.

Once the frying process is complete, it's best to season the calamari immediately to lock in the flavour. Seasoning the calamari while it's hot is one tip for enhancing the overall flavour. You can also enjoy it while it's warm, as this will give you a warm and comforting taste with every bite.

At Piccolino, fried calamari is a star dish that showcases the best of Italian simplicity. Using fresh ingredients and the right cooking techniques, the team brings this classic to life in every bite. Crisp on the outside, tender inside, and served with the warmth of Italian hospitality, it's the perfect way to start your meal.

Craving fried calamari done right? Visit Piccolino Woodfired Pizza and Homemade Pasta to discover more dishes that bring people together.

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