Crispy Calamari

Who doesn't like crispy calamari , I haven't met anyone who does not like it . This is a family favourite , it's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside but  frying this is a big nightmare (it splatters all over ) , you have to be really careful , we should really make a suit out of the oven mitts to do this , trust me it's that bad but it is so worth it so here goes.........

INGREDIENTS

1 kg calamari / squid cut into rings
1/2 cup plain flour
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp red chilli powder
1/4 tsp pepper
salt to taste
1 egg with a little water to make egg wash
1 cup or more of panko breadcrumbs

METHOD

In a plastic bag , add the flour and the spices and shake it up to mix well .
Then add in the calamari and shkae it till it flour mix coats .
Shake off the excess flour and dip the rings in the egg wash and then the bread crumbs .
Deep fry it till crispy and golden in medium to hot oil .
Serve it with chilli sauce or Mayo tahini dip.

NOTES

You can use normal breadcrumbs but panko really gives you that crunch .

Spicy Squid Masala

I love squid and my kids love them too , so much that they don't mind the heat in this dish . This is my fav way of making it , no strike that eating it . It is very easy to make , absolutely no skill required and it tastes and looks great so here goes........

INGREDIENTS

1 kg squid washed and cut into rings ( I use the head too )
2 tsp red chilli powder
1/2 tsp turmeric
3-6 garlic cloves minced
1/2 inch pc of ginger minced
1 large onion sliced thinly
5-10 curry leaves
2 + 1 tbsp coconut oil
a pinch of garam masala ( optional )

METHOD

In a pan , add the squid , spices , ginger and garlic and keep on high heat .
When the liquid starts to come out from the squid , lower the heat and cook for about 5-10 min .
In another pan , add 2 tbsp coconut oil .
When it starts to get hot , add the curry leaves and the cooked squid while reserving the liquid .
Be careful , because the squid starts spluttering .
Fry it for a few min and then set it aside .
Add the remaining oil and fry the onion slices till golden .
Add the reserved liquid and when it starts boiling , add the fried squid and cook till the water has evapourated , stirring it frequently, sprinkle some garam masala if using .
By now the masala must have coated all over the squid and gives off a nice aroma.
Serve hot with rice or roti and enjoy .