Image Source from vonheederkayla2

Air Fryer Fried Calamari – A Light and Crispy Appetiser!

Calamari is a beloved delicacy enjoyed in various cuisines around the world. Traditionally deep-fried, this dish often results in a greasy coating that can overshadow the tender flavour of the squid. Enter the air fryer: this innovative kitchen appliance allows you to achieve that sought-after crispy texture with significantly less oil, making for a lighter, healthier version of fried calamari that is just as delicious.

The Evolution of Calamari

Originating from Mediterranean countries, calamari refers specifically to squids used in cooking. When prepared correctly, calamari can be a treat for the tastebuds, boasting a delicate flavour complemented by the right seasonings and coatings. However, the challenge lies in achieving that ideal crispy exterior and tender interior without the excess oil associated with traditional frying.

Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve fried calamari that is crispier and less oily, allowing the natural taste of the seafood to shine through.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Air Fryer Fried Calamari, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 450g squid tubes (cleaned and sliced into rings)
• 100g plain flour
• 50g cornflour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Tartar sauce or aioli (for dipping)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Squid: Rinse the squid tubes and pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut them into rings approximately half an inch wide.

3. Make the Coating: In one bowl, combine the plain flour, cornflour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg.

4. Coat the Calamari: Dip each squid ring into the beaten egg, allowing any excess egg to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour.

5. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the calamari rings in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. You may need to fry them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

6. Air Fry: Spray the tops of the calamari rings lightly with oil and air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the calamari from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain that desired crispiness.

• Choose Fresh Squid: Fresh squid tends to have a better texture and flavour compared to frozen varieties. If using frozen calamari, ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry before coating.

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or Italian herbs for added flavour.

Conclusion

Whether served as a starter or a snack, Air Fryer Fried Calamari offers a delightful combination of light, crispy textures and savoury flavours. With this healthier method, you can indulge guilt-free and impress your guests with a dish that delivers all the taste without the grease. Enjoy your culinary creation with a zesty dip and a squeeze of lemon for a truly irresistible appetiser!

No items listed in the response.