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Crispy Salt and Pepper Squid

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Bring restaurant-style flavor home with this Crispy Salt and Pepper Squid—perfectly golden and ultra-crunchy squid tossed with garlic, chili, cracked black pepper, and sea salt. This iconic Asian-inspired appetizer delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. Serve it hot with lime wedges and sweet chili sauce for the ultimate seafood snack or starter.

Ingredients

  • For the squid:

    • 1 lb squid (tubes and tentacles), cleaned and cut into rings

    • 1/2 cup cornstarch

    • 1/4 cup rice flour (or all-purpose flour)

    • 1 tsp baking powder

    • 1 tsp sea salt

    • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

    • 1/2 tsp white pepper

    • Vegetable oil, for frying

  • For the stir-fry finish:

    • 2 garlic cloves, minced

    • 1 red chili, finely sliced (optional)

    • 2 green onions, chopped

    • Extra salt and pepper to taste

  • To serve:

    • Lime wedges

    • Sweet chili sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat squid dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.

  2. In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, rice flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and white pepper.

  3. Toss the squid in the flour mix until well coated.

  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry squid in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

  5. In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté garlic, red chili (if using), and green onions until fragrant.

  6. Add the fried squid and toss quickly to coat in the aromatics. Sprinkle with a bit more salt and pepper to finish.

  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges and sweet chili sauce on the side.

 


Notes

  • Ensure squid is completely dry before coating for the crispiest result.

  • You can substitute rice flour with potato starch for an even lighter crunch.

  • This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot for maximum crispiness.