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Air Fryer Calamari: A Crispy Delight with a Healthier Twist

Calamari, a beloved seafood dish, is often synonymous with indulgent dining experiences, typically deep-fried to golden perfection. However, in recent years, the rise of healthier cooking methods has led to the emergence of the air fryer, which claims to deliver that same satisfying crunch without the excess oil. In this article, we delve into the art of preparing Air Fryer Calamari, showcasing how this gadget can transform a classic dish into a lighter, yet equally delightful, offering.

What is Calamari?

Calamari refers to squid, often served in the culinary world as rings or strips that have been battered and fried. It is prized for its delicate, slightly sweet flavour and unique texture. Popularly found in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, calamari can be enjoyed on its own as a starter, tossed into salads, or served with a variety of dipping sauces.

The Benefits of Air Frying

The air fryer, a kitchen appliance that circulates hot air to cook food, has gained prominence for its ability to produce crispy dishes with a fraction of the oil normally required for deep frying. This method not only reduces calorie intake but also eliminates some of the unhealthy trans fats associated with traditional frying. With proper temperature settings and cooking times, the air fryer can mimic the texture and taste of fried foods, making it an ideal option for a dish like calamari.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Calamari

To prepare Air Fryer Calamari, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g squid, cleaned and cut into rings or strips
• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 150g breadcrumbs (for extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavour)
• Cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil
• Lemon wedges and a dipping sauce of your choice (such as aioli or marinara) for serving

Preparation Steps

1. Preparation of the Squid: Begin by ensuring that your squid is well-cleaned and cut into uniform rings. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crisp finish.

2. Battering Station: Set up a battering station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the plain flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.

3. Coating the Squid: Take each piece of squid and first dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, before finally coating it with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.

4. Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). Preheating ensures that the calamari will cook evenly and become crispy.

5. Cooking the Calamari: Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of olive oil. Arrange the coated calamari in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overcrowding for optimal cooking. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

6. Air Frying: Cook the calamari for approximately 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for uniform crispiness. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as calamari can become tough if left too long.

7. Serving: Once golden and crispy, remove the calamari from the air fryer and let them drain on paper towels for a moment. Serve them hot with lemon wedges and your preferred dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Calamari is a brilliant way to enjoy a classic dish while keeping health considerations in mind. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this preparation method allows you to indulge without the guilt traditionally associated with fried foods. So, why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, dust off the air fryer, and enjoy a crunchy, flavour-packed seafood dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for a quick appetiser, a snack, or an elegant addition to your dining table, Air Fryer Calamari is the tasty twist your mealtime has been waiting for.

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