We adore how crispy and golden our Gluten Free Fried Calamari turns out with a light coating. It’s a breeze to whip up and it tastes restaurant worthy without the gluten.
We gather simple pantry staples like rice flour and seasonings so we can keep the process quick. The result is a plate of tender rings that crunch perfectly in every bite.
We serve them hot alongside our favorite dipping sauce for that extra burst of flavor. It’s a foolproof crowd pleaser that never lets us down.
Tools And Equipment
We set ourselves up for success by laying out everything before we begin our Gluten Free Fried Calamari. We rely on sturdy items that can handle high heat and maintain consistent temperatures. Here is what we reach for:
- Deep fryer or heavy bottomed pot for consistent oil temperature and even cooking
- Kitchen thermometer to confirm our oil stays in the ideal range
- Mixing bowls to keep our seasoned flour blend and coated calamari ready
- Tongs or spider strainer for safe handling and turning of each piece
- Paper towels or wire rack to allow excess oil to drain off for a crisp finish
| Oil Temperature | Frying Duration |
|---|---|
| 350°F to 375°F | 2 to 3 minutes |
Ingredients
Here is everything we need for our Gluten Free Fried Calamari. We keep our ingredient measurements precise for consistent results.
Calamari
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh calamari (tubes and tentacles) | 1 pound | Cleaned and patted dry |
| Buttermilk or milk (optional) | Enough to submerge calamari | Optional soak for extra tenderness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Light seasoning before coating |
Gluten-Free Coating Mix
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1 cup | Provides a crisp finish and airy texture |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | Boosts crunch and helps create a golden exterior |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavors without overpowering |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds savory depth to the coating |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Imparts mild smokiness and color |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Delivers a subtle spicy kick |
Directions
We focus on small details to create extra crispy Gluten Free Fried Calamari. We organize our process into steps for easy preparation.
Prep The Calamari
- Rinse the calamari in cool water and pat each piece dry with paper towels.
- Slice the tubes into 1/2-inch rings if not already cut.
- Place the calamari in a bowl and cover with buttermilk for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain any excess liquid.
Coat And Season
- In another bowl whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Remove the calamari from the buttermilk.
- Gently toss each piece in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
- Shake off any extra coating.
Fry The Calamari
- Heat your oil to 350°F to 375°F. Use a thermometer to confirm this range.
- Lower small batches of calamari into the oil. Submerge carefully to prevent splashing.
- Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes until golden.
- Remove the calamari with tongs or a spider strainer. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels.
| Temperature Range | Fry Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F to 375°F | 2 to 3 mins |
Serving Suggestions
We love serving our Gluten Free Fried Calamari alongside vibrant flavors and fresh textures. We arrange lemon wedges around the platter for a bright pop. We offer tangy sauces like cocktail sauce or garlic aioli for dipping. We also pair this crispy dish with crunchy coleslaw or a simple green salad. For an effortless twist, we sometimes serve toasted bread slices to soak up any extra sauce.
| Recommended Pairing | Approximate Quantity per Person |
|---|---|
| Crisp green salad | 1 cup |
| Cocktail sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic aioli | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon wedges | 2 wedges |
| Toasted bread slices | 1 or 2 slices |
Conclusion
We hope you’ll love exploring your own creative touches while making this dish. It’s a quick way to bring a special meal to any occasion and we find it flexible enough for both family dinners and social get togethers
Feel free to try different seasonings or fresh herbs for added flair. We trust you’ll enjoy the flavors and look forward to hearing how it turns out in your kitchen
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is rice flour used in this recipe?
Rice flour creates a light, crispy coating and keeps this fried calamari gluten free. It doesn’t absorb oil as much as wheat flour, so your calamari stays crunchy rather than greasy. This simple pantry staple also adds a subtle texture that complements the tender calamari inside.
Do I need to soak the calamari in buttermilk?
Soaking in buttermilk is optional but recommended. It helps tenderize the calamari and adds mild flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can skip it or use a dairy-free alternative. Just be sure to pat dry before coating.
What’s the ideal oil temperature?
Keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F for best results. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy. This temperature range helps the calamari cook quickly, becoming golden brown on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
How long should I fry the calamari?
Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, depending on thickness. Overcooking can make the calamari rubbery, so keep an eye on the color. Once it’s golden, remove and drain to maintain crispiness.
Can I fry calamari without a deep fryer?
Yes. A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works fine. Just fill with enough oil to submerge the calamari and monitor temperature with a reliable kitchen thermometer. Use a spider strainer or tongs for careful handling.
Which dipping sauces pair well?
Tangy cocktail sauce, zesty garlic aioli, or simple marinara are always popular. For something different, try spicy sriracha mayo, fresh lemon wedges, or even a sweet chili sauce. Choose flavors that complement, not overpower, the crispy calamari.
How do I avoid oil splatters or mess?
Pat the calamari dry before coating and frying. Moisture causes oil splatter. Use paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess water. Slowly place pieces into hot oil to minimize splashing and wear kitchen-safe gloves if you’re worried.
What sides work best with gluten free fried calamari?
Lemon wedges, crunchy coleslaw, simple green salads, or toasted bread slices to soak up extra sauce all pair well. For a heartier meal, serve with fries or roasted vegetables. Offer enough sides for each person to enjoy a balanced plate.