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Air Fryer Calamari: So Crispy but Not Greasy

Calamari often graces the menus of seaside restaurants and Mediterranean bistros, celebrated for its tender texture and crisp exterior. However, traditional frying can leave the dish overly greasy and heavy. Enter the air fryer—a revolutionary kitchen gadget that can deliver the same delightful crunch without the excess oil. If you’re keen to enjoy a healthier take on this classic dish, air fryer calamari could be your new go-to recipe.

The Allure of Air Frying

Air frying works by circulating hot air around food, creating a crispy layer without the need for heavy amounts of oil. This cooking method significantly reduces the calorie count and fat content, making it a fantastic alternative for those looking to indulge in their favourite dishes without the guilt. Not only does it produce a lighter version of fried foods, but it also retains the flavours and textures that make them so appealing.

Ingredients

For this simple yet delicious air fryer calamari, you will need:

• 500g squid tubes, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil for misting
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Aioli or marinara sauce, for dipping

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Squid

If you haven’t done so already, clean and slice the squid tubes into rings. Make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture; this step is crucial for achieving that crunchy exterior.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, combine the plain flour with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a second bowl, place the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs along with the garlic powder. This three-step breading process is essential for a perfect crust.

Step 3: Bread the Squid

Coat each squid ring first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully covered, and finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated to achieve maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to around 200°C (392°F) for about 5 minutes. Once preheated, arrange the breaded calamari in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. You may need to work in batches.

Mist the calamari lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil. This will enhance browning and crispiness. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The calamari should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 5: Serving

Once cooked, transfer the air fryer calamari to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess moisture. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce—a garlic aioli or a tangy marinara sauce works beautifully.

Conclusion

Air fryer calamari has all the crispy satisfaction of its deep-fried counterpart, but with significantly less grease. It’s a splendid starter for dinner parties or a delightful snack to enjoy while watching your favourite film. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, this dish is destined to become a firm favourite in your household.

The next time you crave that indulgent flavour, remember that you can satisfy your taste buds without compromising your health. So why not fire up the air fryer and treat yourself to this scrumptious air fryer calamari? Your waistline will thank you!

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