If you’re a seafood lover, you’ve likely heard of “Salt & Pepper Squid.” It’s a dish that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and delicately tender on the inside. Its flavor is so amazing that once you’ve tried it, it’s sure to be a staple on your favorite snack list. It’s easy to enjoy at a restaurant, but did you know it can be made just as delicious and crispy at home? Today, we’ll show you how to make restaurant-style crispy salt and pepper squid in your own kitchen—easily, with less oil, and without any hassle.
What is squid and why is it special?
Squid is a type of sea creature commonly known as “calamari.” It’s rich in protein, light, and extremely delicious. Squid is a very popular dish in many Asian countries, such as China, Thailand, and Japan. It’s also a popular dish in coastal India. Squid has a mild flavor, and when fried with salt, pepper, and mild spices, it creates a magical flavor.
Required Ingredients for Preparing Squid at Home
To create a restaurant-like dish, it’s crucial to choose the right ingredients. This dish is as simple to make as it looks. You’ll need:
- Fresh squid (cleaned and cut into rings)
- Cornflour and flour (for crispiness)
- Salt and pepper powder
- A little garlic, ginger, and green chilies (for a sharper flavor)
- Oil (for deep-frying)
- Lemon juice and green onions (for garnishing)
With these ingredients, you can create restaurant-like flavor at home in minutes.
The Right Way to Clean and Cut Squid
People often make mistakes while cleaning squid, which can ruin its taste and texture. First, remove the inner membrane and ink sac of the squid. Then gently peel off the squid’s skin. Then, cut it into rings—not too thick or too thin. If you’d like, you can marinate the squid for a few minutes with a little lemon juice and salt. This will remove the odor and enhance the flavor.
The Secret to the Perfect Batter
The real magic of restaurant-style crispy squid lies in its batter (coating). A perfect batter will enhance the dish’s flavor. To do this, combine equal parts cornflour and flour in a bowl. Add a little salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Some people also add a little garlic powder or white pepper for flavor. Now, lightly coat the squid rings in this mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
A tip—Refrigerate the squid for 10 minutes before frying; this will make the batter even crispier.
The Right Way to Fry
Now comes the most important part—frying. If the oil temperature isn’t right, the squid will either absorb too much oil or become tough. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, slowly add the squid pieces. Be careful not to add too many at once, or the temperature will drop and the squid will become mushy.
Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Then, remove them to a paper towel to drain off any excess oil.
Spicy Salt and Pepper Toss
Now comes the step that sets this dish apart from other fried snacks—the salt and pepper toss. Pour some oil into a pan and add finely chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies, sautéing for a few seconds. When they begin to smell fragrant, add the freshly fried squid. Add salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and a little red chili powder, if desired.
Toss over high heat for a few seconds to coat the squid with the spices. Add some chopped green onions and a squeeze of lemon. This is when your kitchen will start to smell like a restaurant.
A Perfect Balance of Taste and Texture
The true delight of Salt & Pepper Squid lies in its flavor and texture. It’s crispy and mildly spicy on the outside, while soft and juicy on the inside. When you bite into it, the flavors of salt, pepper, and garlic are felt together in every bite. This dish is perfect not only as a starter but also as a party snack or evening snack.
Serving Style and Serving Suggestion
To achieve a restaurant-style experience, the serving style should be a little special. Arrange lettuce leaves or salad on a plate, then serve the hot squid on top. Serve lemon slices and chili mayo sauce or sweet chili sauce on the side. If desired, serve cold beer or a mocktail—which further enhances the flavor.
If you’re serving it to family or guests, garnish it with spring onions and sesame seeds. This not only looks beautiful but also tastes great.
Some Expert Tips
Serve the squid immediately after frying to preserve its crispness. If you’re preparing it in advance, warm it up slightly in the oven before serving. Also, try not to overcook the squid, as it can become rubbery.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, it can also be made in an air fryer. Simply spray the squid lightly with oil and air fry at 180°C for 8-10 minutes. The taste will remain the same, but less oil is used.
Conclusion
Overall, Salt and Pepper Squid is a recipe that’s the perfect blend of taste, texture, and aroma. As easy as it is to make, it’s ready on your table in no time. It’s one of those recipes that can make any evening special—whether it’s a friend’s party, a weekend dinner, or just a mood-boosting treat.
