Fried Calamari (Fresh Whole Squid)

Fried calamari on a round tray with herbs

5 from 6 votes

Crispy fried calamari made from whole fresh squid is the perfect appetizer for any seafood lover. They are quick and easy to make and just so good. Serve with a pinch of sea salt, lemon and tartar sauce.

Prep Time15

Cook Time5

Refrigerate8

Total Time8 20

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American, Italian

Servings: servings

Calories: 539kcal

Author: Sabine

Ingredients

1 lb squid, cleaned (about 2-3 whole squid)
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
⅔ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cups sunflower oil (more or less, depending on the pan size)

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Cut the squid into ½" (1.3cm) rings. You don't need to cut the tentacles into multiple pieces, but you can if you want. Then place the cut pieces in a bowl and cover with milk (depending on the size of the bowl, you may need more or less), add salt and stir. Refrigerate for 8-12 hours.
Fill a large pan 2" (5.1cm) deep with oil and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 375-400°F (191-204°C). Also, place a wire rack with paper towels underneath the rack next to the pan.
While the oil is heating, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
Using tongs or a fork, place the squid in the bowl with the flour mixture. Work in batches. Add a few at a time and don't overcrowd the bowl. Then toss to coat the squid evenly.
Shake off any excess flour and place the floured rings and tentacles in the oil individually and fry them until golden brown for 60-90 seconds. You don't need to turn them but can do so if you wish. Work in batches and don't overcrowd the pan, otherwise the temperature will drop too much.
Transfer with tongs or a spider skimmer to the prepared wire rack.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, herbs, sea salt, and tartar sauce if you like.

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