Calamares Fritos or Crispy Onion Rings

Calamares Fritos

The shallow frying makes this tapas dish a little bit naughty but as the Calamares Fritos are made from fresh squid and served with a wedge of lemon, there is a light and refreshing element too.

When I make Calamares Fritos as part of a tapas dinner, the Vegetarian has a Crispy Onion Ring alternative.

Serves: 2 Vegetarians and 2 Pescatarians, as part of tapas

P: 1 squid, gutted and sliced into rings about 1cm wide
V: 1 Spanish onion, sliced into rings

2 Tbsp Corn flour
2 Tbsp Plain flour
Salt and pepper

On a plate sprinkle a layer of corn flour, a layer of plain flour, season and mix together.

In a pan heat the corn oil until it starts to bubble.

V: Gently pat dry the onion rings with a tea towel. Coat with the flour, shake off the excess and place in the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes and set aside to drain on kitchen paper. You can do a few at a time but don’t overcrowd the oil as it will lose heat and not cook through properly.

P: Coat each ring of squid in the flour, shake off the excess and place in the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes and set aside to drain on kitchen paper. You can do a few at a time but don’t overcrowd the oil as it will lose heat and not cook the squid properly.

Serve with a wedge of lemon.