Calamares a la Romana, or Fried Calamari, is a popular Spanish tapa that features tender squid rings coated in a light, crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. This dish is often served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. Follow this recipe to create authentic Calamares a la Romana at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Sparkling Water:
- Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the batter is smooth and has the consistency of heavy cream. Be careful not to overmix.
Frying the Calamari:
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat the Squid:
- Dip the squid rings into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Fry the Squid:
- Working in batches, carefully add the battered squid rings to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried calamari to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serving:
- Garnish:
- Arrange the fried calamari on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Calamares a la Romana hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Calamares a la Romana is a classic Spanish tapa that is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. The light, crispy batter complements the tender squid, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy this dish with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for an authentic Spanish experience. ¡Buen provecho!