Crispy Golden Calamari Rings with Zesty Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these Crispy Golden Calamari Rings, a delightful combination of tender squid coated in a scrumptious panko crust. This dish features a perfectly spiced flour blend and is deep-fried to golden perfection, ensuring each bite is both crunchy and flavorful. Paired with a tangy homemade aioli, these calamari rings are sure to impress at your next gathering or dinner party. Indulge in this indulgent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers stunning results. Enjoy with friends, and don’t forget to keep the aioli flowing!
4
Servings
325
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen squid rings
16 ounces (thawed under running water)
All-purpose flour
1 cup (for coating; adjust as necessary)
Cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (for spice)
Kosher salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Eggs
3 (lightly beaten)
Panko breadcrumbs
6 ounces (for coating)
Oil
as needed (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together flour, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Feel free to customize this mixture with any additional herbs or zest, such as lemon peel, for extra flavor.
2
Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly until well combined.
3
Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a plate or shallow dish.
4
In a medium-large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5
Toss a few thawed calamari rings in the flour mixture to coat them evenly, then shake off the excess flour.
6
Dip the flour-coated rings into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated, then transfer them to the plate of panko breadcrumbs.
7
Using your hands or a ziplock bag, gently toss the calamari rings in the panko until they are well covered. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs.
8
Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
9
Fry the calamari until the panko is golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
10
Remove the calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
11
Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces; the recommended pairing is a zesty aioli.
12
Indulge in this delicious treat, and consider going for a run or relaxing afterward, as it is quite filling.
Nutrition Information
17.5
Fat
21.25
Carbs
21.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Golden Calamari Rings?
They are a delicious appetizer featuring tender squid rings coated in a crunchy panko crust and deep-fried until golden, typically served with a zesty aioli.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of this calamari?
There are approximately 325 calories per serving.
What is the protein content of this dish?
Each serving contains 21.25 grams of protein.
What type of squid is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of frozen squid rings, thawed under running water.
What kind of breadcrumbs are used for the coating?
The recipe uses panko breadcrumbs to ensure a light and extra crunchy texture.
How much fat is in a serving of this calamari?
There are 17.5 grams of fat per serving.
What spices are included in the flour mixture?
The flour mixture includes cayenne pepper and kosher salt for seasoning and spice.
Can I add other flavors to the breading?
Yes, you can customize the flour mixture with additional herbs or lemon zest for extra flavor.
How many eggs are needed for the dredging process?
You will need 3 eggs, lightly beaten.
What is the recommended cooking method?
The calamari rings are deep-fried in a pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
How long do I need to fry the calamari rings?
Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
What is the best way to coat the calamari in panko?
You can use your hands or a ziplock bag to gently toss the egg-coated rings in the panko until well covered.
Why is it important not to overcrowd the pan while frying?
Not overcrowding the pan ensures that the calamari rings cook evenly and become crispy rather than soggy.
How do I remove excess oil after frying?
Place the fried calamari on a paper towel-lined plate immediately after removing them from the oil.
What is the suggested dipping sauce?
A tangy homemade zesty aioli is the recommended pairing for these calamari rings.
What are the carbohydrate counts for this recipe?
There are 21.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Yes, it is tagged as a party food and is perfect for impressing guests at gatherings.
What should I do with the squid before starting?
Ensure the frozen squid rings are completely thawed under running water before dredging.
How should the oil look when it is ready for frying?
The oil should be shimmering when heated over medium-high heat.
What is the order of the dredging process?
First coat the rings in the flour mixture, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally toss in panko breadcrumbs.
Should I shake off excess flour and panko?
Yes, shake off excess flour after the first step and excess breadcrumbs after the final step for a better crust.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, despite the stunning results, the recipe is described as surprisingly easy to make.
Can I use this recipe for other types of seafood?
While designed for squid, the panko crust method works well for various types of fried seafood.
How much panko is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 6 ounces of panko breadcrumbs.
How much flour is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of all-purpose flour, though you can adjust as necessary.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized under Squid and Seafood appetizers.
Does the recipe contain fiber or sugar info?
No, the fiber, sugar, sodium, and cholesterol values are not specified in the data.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include calamari, fried squid, appetizer, seafood, panko, party food, crispy, and easy recipe.
What is the final serving instruction?
Serve the calamari rings hot with your choice of dipping sauces and enjoy this filling treat.