Crispy Squid Golden Fried (Print Version)

Golden-fried squid rings with a light, crunchy coating, ideal for a quick and tasty Mediterranean snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Squid

01 - 1.1 lbs cleaned squid tubes and tentacles

→ Coating

02 - 0.44 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 0.17 cups cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
05 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

→ For Frying

07 - 2 cups vegetable oil

→ Garnish & Serving

08 - 1 lemon, cut into wedges
09 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
10 - Aioli or tartar sauce, for dipping

# How-To Steps:

01 - Pat the cleaned squid dry with paper towels. Slice tubes into 0.4-inch rings; leave tentacles whole.
02 - In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (180°C).
04 - Toss the squid rings and tentacles in the flour mixture until thoroughly coated, shaking off excess.
05 - Fry squid in batches for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and crisp, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
06 - Remove squid with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired. Offer aioli or tartar sauce for dipping.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The secret to that perfect crunch feels like sharing a little hidden treasure with a close friend
  • This became a go-to because it’s quick, easy, and impressively delicious without fuss
02 -
  • Keeping the oil hot enough is key; too cool and the squid gets greasy, too hot and it burns fast
  • Chilling the coated squid before frying helps the batter stick and enhances the crispiness tremendously
03 -
  • Try double dredging the squid in coating for an even crunchier finish
  • Rest the coated squid briefly before frying to let the flour set ensuring a non-greasy crisp