Crispy Calamari recipe served on a plate, by Eat Today East African Cuisine
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEat Today East African CuisineCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Served with a spicy aioli.

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Frequently paired with

The best thing to pair and share with Crispy Calamari

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Dark and Stormy

Gosling’s rum, ginger beer, fresh lime juice

spicy · citrusy · rich

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Ingredients

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Crispy Calamari

Method

Crispy Calamari

1

Prepare the Calamari

Thaw the calamari rings if frozen and pat them dry with paper towels.

2

Make the Coating

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

3

Dip in Buttermilk

Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl. Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.

4

Coat the Calamari

Dredge the buttermilk-soaked calamari rings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

5

Heat the Oil

In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

6

Fry the Calamari

Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

7

Drain and Serve

Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Spicy Aioli

8

Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, and salt.

9

Mix Well

Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

10

Chill

Cover the aioli and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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