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Fried Calamari

This easy recipe makes the perfect fried calamari!

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6
Author Delish D'Lites

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds cleaned calamari cut into rings
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon old Bay seafood seasoning
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 cup corn meal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Canola oil for frying
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Marinara sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Cut the calamari bodies into rings, and trim the tentacles, if necessary.
  2. Cover the calamari with the milk, and add the Old Bay seasoning. Stir to combine, then refrigerate overnight.
  3. Why soak the calamari in milk? The lactic acid in the milk actually helps tenderize the calamari, keeping it from becoming rubbery when you cook it.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the corn starch, corn meal, and salt.
  5. Dredge the calamari and fry them in batches in oil that's been heated to 375 degrees F. Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, until lightly golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain the calamari well, then sprinkle with salt and serve hot, with lemon wedges and marinara sauce.