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Crispy Calamares with Sweet Chili Dip

Golden-fried squid rings with a light, crispy crust, served with celery sticks and tangy-sweet chili sauce. Spanish tapas that feel fancy but take 20 minutes flat.

Total time
20 min
Servings
2
Calories
380
Protein
28g
Crispy Calamares with Sweet Chili Dip
casualindulgentspanishsquidcrispytenderAppetizerweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Pat squid dry with paper towels. Mix flour, cornstarch, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper in a shallow bowl.

  2. Step 2

    Heat oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. Use a thermometer—too hot burns the coating; too cool makes it soggy.

  3. Step 3

    Working in batches, coat squid rings in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then slide into hot oil.

  4. Step 4

    Fry 2–3 minutes per batch, stirring gently, until golden and edges curl slightly. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

  5. Step 5

    Arrange calamares on a platter with celery sticks. Pour sweet chili sauce into a small bowl alongside.

  6. Step 6

    Squeeze fresh lemon over the calamares. Serve immediately while crispy.

Tools you’ll need

  • paper towels
  • shallow bowl
  • heavy skillet or Dutch oven
  • instant-read thermometer
  • slotted spoon or spider strainer
  • plate
  • cutting board
  • knife

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