Fried squid, better known as fried calamari, is a popular appetizer dish in many cuisines. There are a wide variety of ways to prepare fried squid, from mild to spicy, with a range of flavors. Squid can have a rubbery texture if it is not cooked right since it is a delicate fish. Marinating it in milk or buttermilk helps to tenderize the squid before cooking it. Fried squid can be enjoyed in its simplicity or with a multitude of flavored dips.
Cut the squid body into 1/2-inch rings.
Mix minced garlic into the milk in a bowl. Salt and pepper to taste.
Soak the squid rings in the bowl of milk.
Cover and refrigerate the bowl of squid overnight.
Preheat a deep skillet with 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil over high heat. The oil should reach 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper to taste. Mix well with a fork or whisk.
Drain the squid rings using a colander and discard the milk.
Place the squid into the flour and toss to coat well.
Carefully drop the squid rings into the oil and fry for about 1 minute, or until they turn a light gold.
Take the fried squid out of the skillet with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
Garnish the fried squid with lemon wedges or chopped jalapeno peppers.
Tips
For a healthier fried version, use just enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, double the cooking time, turning the squid over half way through.
Add 1 tbsp. chili powder to the flour to make the fried squid spicy.
Try a variety of seasonings in the flour for different flavors.
Sprinkle grated Romano or Parmesan cheese onto the hot fried squid.
Dip the fried squid in marinara sauce or salsa.
Warning
Do not overcrowd the skillet or the squid may not fry correctly.
