🦑 Crispy Fried Calamari

✨ Ingredients
• 500 g calamari rings (about 1–1.5 cm thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (makes it extra crispy)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Oil for deep frying (sunflower or canola)
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley (optional)

⸻

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Calamari
• Rinse calamari rings under cold water.
• Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Dry calamari = crunchier coating.

⸻

2️⃣ Mix the Coating

In a large bowl, combine:
• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika & garlic powder (if using)

⸻

3️⃣ Heat the Oil
• Heat your frying oil to 180°C (350–365°F).
• Use enough oil so the calamari can float freely.

⸻

4️⃣ Fry the Calamari
• Toss calamari rings in the flour mixture until well coated.
• Shake off any excess.
• Fry in small batches for 1.5–2 minutes only
(don’t overcook, or they get tough).
• Remove and place on paper towels.

⸻

5️⃣ Serve
• Squeeze fresh lemon on top.
• Add chopped parsley if you like.
• Serve with garlic mayo, aioli, or marinara sauce.