Crispy Calamari with Zesty Lemon Garlic Aioli
Indulge in the delightful crunch of our Crispy Calamari, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. This dish features tender calamari hoods that are coated in a flavorful mix of cornflake crumbs, giving them an irresistible texture. Paired with a tangy lemon garlic aioli that enhances the taste, this dish is a showstopper for any occasion. Remember, the key to tender calamari is not to overcook them; follow the cooking times closely for melt-in-your-mouth results. Serve as an appetizer or alongside chips and a fresh salad for a satisfying meal!
4
Servings
300
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
cleaned calamari, hoods
750 (cut into 1 cm thick rings)
plain flour
1 cup (mixed with salt & pepper)
eggs
3 (beaten)
cold water
2 tablespoons (used to thin the egg mixture)
corn flake crumbs or breadcrumbs
4 cups (combined with vegetable seasoning)
vegetable seasoning
to taste (mixed into the breadcrumb mixture)
canola oil
for deep frying (heated in a saucepan)
egg mayonnaise
to taste (used in garlic aioli)
lemon
1 (juiced)
crushed garlic
to taste (used in garlic aioli)
salt & pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
2
In a bowl, combine the plain flour with salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the cold water until well mixed.
3
In a third bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs (or breadcrumbs) with vegetable seasoning to taste.
4
Take the calamari rings and coat each one in the seasoned flour, making sure to shake off any excess.
5
Next, dip the floured calamari into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
6
Finally, transfer the calamari to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the calamari with your fingertips for an even coating. Place the coated rings on the lined baking tray.
7
Heat the canola oil in a deep, heavy-based saucepan over medium-high heat.
8
Fry the calamari rings in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn light golden brown. Avoid crowding the pan.
9
Once cooked, transfer the calamari to a wire rack over a lined baking tray and keep warm in the preheated oven while you cook the remaining batches.
10
In a small bowl, mix 3 to 4 tablespoons of good egg mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to create your aioli.
11
Serve the crispy calamari hot with the lemon garlic aioli, alongside chips and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
37.5g
Carbs
11.25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary ingredient in this recipe?
The primary ingredient is 750g of cleaned calamari hoods, which are cut into 1 cm thick rings.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How long should I fry the calamari rings?
Fry the calamari rings in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn light golden brown.
What is the recommended oven temperature for keeping the calamari warm?
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) to keep the cooked calamari warm while finishing the batches.
What coating gives the calamari its crispy texture?
A mixture of cornflake crumbs or breadcrumbs combined with vegetable seasoning provides the crispy texture.
How do I prevent the calamari from becoming rubbery?
The key to tender calamari is not to overcook them; strictly follow the 2 to 3-minute frying time.
What ingredients are used to make the lemon garlic aioli?
The aioli is made by mixing egg mayonnaise with fresh lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.
What type of oil is best for deep frying this dish?
Canola oil is the recommended choice for deep frying these calamari rings.
How should I prepare the calamari hoods before coating?
The cleaned calamari hoods should be cut into rings that are approximately 1 cm thick.
Why is it important to shake off excess flour during the coating process?
Shaking off excess flour ensures a light, even coating and prevents the batter from becoming too thick or falling off.
What are the nutritional values for one serving of this calamari?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 37.5g of carbohydrates, and 11.25g of protein.
How many eggs are needed for the egg wash?
You will need 3 eggs, beaten and mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water.
What is the purpose of adding cold water to the beaten eggs?
The cold water is used to thin the egg mixture, making it easier to coat the calamari rings evenly.
Can I use breadcrumbs instead of cornflake crumbs?
Yes, the recipe allows for either cornflake crumbs or traditional breadcrumbs for the outer coating.
What should I use to line the baking tray?
Line your baking tray with baking paper to prevent sticking and to hold the calamari while warming.
How should I store the calamari once they are fried but I am still cooking more?
Transfer cooked rings to a wire rack over a lined baking tray and keep them in a 150°C oven.
Why shouldn't I crowd the pan when frying?
Crowding the pan can drop the oil temperature, leading to soggy rather than crispy calamari.
What seasoning is added to the flour?
The plain flour is mixed with salt and pepper for initial seasoning.
What are some recommended sides for this dish?
This dish is best served alongside hot chips and a fresh green salad.
Is this dish considered an appetizer or a main meal?
It can be served as a delightful appetizer or as a satisfying main meal with sides.
How many total ingredients are listed in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients required to make this recipe, including the aioli components.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Squid dishes.
How much mayonnaise is needed for the aioli?
The recipe suggests using 3 to 4 tablespoons of good quality egg mayonnaise.
Should the garlic in the aioli be crushed or sliced?
The garlic should be crushed to ensure it mixes thoroughly into the mayonnaise.
What kind of saucepan is best for frying the calamari?
A deep, heavy-based saucepan is recommended for maintaining consistent heat during deep frying.
What tags can I use to find this recipe online?
Common tags include calamari, fried seafood, appetizer, lemon aioli, and seafood recipe.
How do I ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the calamari?
Press the crumbs onto the floured and egg-dipped calamari with your fingertips for an even, secure coating.
What is the primary flavor profile of the aioli?
The aioli has a tangy, zesty, and savory profile due to the lemon juice and crushed garlic.
Can I use frozen calamari for this recipe?
Yes, though ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before starting the coating process.
What is the texture of the finished calamari?
The calamari features a delightful crunch on the outside with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior.