Cooking calamari strips can be a daunting task for many people, with the fear of making them too rubbery or tough. However, with the right technique, cooking calamari strips can be a breeze, leaving you with a delicious and tender meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking calamari strips, including how to clean, season, and cook them to perfection.
Ingredients:
Before we get into the recipe, let's go over some of the essential ingredients you'll need to cook calamari strips. For this recipe, you'll need:
- 1 pound calamari strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cleaning the Calamari Strips:
The first step to cooking calamari strips is to clean them properly. This process involves removing the skin, the head, and the internal organs of the calamari.
To do this, lay the calamari on a cutting board with the head facing away from you. Hold the body with one hand and gently pull the head and organs away from the body with the other. Discard the head and organs.
Next, peel off the skin from the body by gently pulling it away. If the skin is difficult to remove, use a knife to make a shallow cut and peel it away. Once the skin is off, run the blade along the inside of the body to remove any remaining organs.
Once the calamari strips are cleaned properly, rinse them under running water to remove any remaining debris.
Seasoning the Calamari Strips:
After cleaning, the next step is to season the calamari strips. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
Gently toss the calamari strips in the mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to permeate.
Cooking the Calamari Strips:
The final step is to cook the calamari strips. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the calamari strips to the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook the calamari strips for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown.
Be careful not to overcook the calamari strips as they can become tough and rubbery.
Pro Tip:
For an even crispier texture, lightly coat the calamari strips in cornstarch before frying.
Serving the Calamari Strips:
Once the calamari strips are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with a side of lemon wedges, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli.
Final Thoughts:
Cooking calamari strips might seem intimidating at first, but with patience and the right technique, it can be a delicious and easy meal to make. Remember to clean the calamari properly, season them generously, and cook them for a short amount of time over high heat. With these tips, you'll be able to make tender and flavorful calamari strips every time.
