There’s something utterly satisfying about the crunch of perfectly fried squid. As the aroma of garlic and ginger wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to the vibrant streets of a bustling Cantonese market. This Crispy Salt and Pepper Squid is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that melds tender, seasoned squid with a savory, crunchy coating. With just a handful of ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress dinner guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility—while it shines with squid, feel free to switch things up with shrimp or tofu if that suits your mood. Whether you enjoy it as a tempting appetizer or a standout main course, this dish is bound to awaken your taste buds and bring joy to any table. So, let’s dive into this exciting culinary adventure and create something that not only tastes amazing but is incredibly easy to whip up!
Why is Savory Salt and Pepper Squid a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This dish requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile: While squid takes center stage, shrimp or tofu can easily replace it for variety.
Flavor Explosion: Zesty garlic and ginger elevate the taste, bringing restaurant-level dishes to your home.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, it’s bound to impress family and friends!
Crisp Texture: The combination of cornstarch and baking powder results in an irresistibly crunchy exterior.
Savory Salt and Pepper Squid Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish with these essential components!
For the Batter
- Squid – This primary protein provides the base for your savory salt and pepper squid; calamari can be used as a tasty substitute.
- All-purpose Flour – This helps create the batter; opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version!
- Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch when dredging the squid; there’s no direct substitute, but additional flour may work.
- Baking Powder – Essential for keeping the batter light and crispy.
- Salt and Pepper Seasoning – Imparts key flavor; you can make this at home or grab it from the store.
For Flavoring
- Minced Garlic – Adds a rich, aromatic flavor; garlic powder serves as a suitable substitute if needed.
- Minced Ginger – Infuses a fresh, spicy note; ground ginger can do the trick too in a pinch!
- Fresh Chili – For a kick of heat; feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Scallions – Offers a fresh, crunchy addition and a pop of color.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Required for frying; choose oils with a high smoke point for best results.
With these ingredients for your savory salt and pepper squid, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that will leave everyone raving! Enjoy the cooking experience as well as the remarkable flavors.
How to Make Savory Salt and Pepper Squid
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, your salt and pepper seasoning, and 1 cup of cold water until you achieve a smooth texture. Take your squid and coat it evenly in this light batter.
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Dredge the Squid: On a clean plate, combine the remaining flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Dredge each piece of battered squid in this mixture to enhance the crunch factor once fried.
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Heat the Oil: In a wok or a deep frying pan, pour in 2 cups of vegetable oil and heat it to 180°C (350°F). This is the perfect temperature to achieve that delightful crispiness!
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Fry the Squid: In small batches, carefully lower the squid into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the squid turns golden brown, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan for consistent cooking.
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Drain Oil: Once golden, remove the fried squid from the wok and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same hot oil, add minced garlic, ginger, and fresh chili. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant; the aroma will be mouthwatering!
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Combine and Serve: Quickly return the fried squid to the wok, toss in the chopped scallions, and combine everything for a few moments before serving hot.
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, serve with a zesty dipping sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory Salt and Pepper Squid?
Creating the perfect dining experience is all about balance, and these delightful pairings will elevate your meal nicely.
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Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic flavors of garlic-infused rice complement the savory squid and provide a satisfying base to soak up any lingering sauce.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy side of cabbage, carrots, and scallions tossed in a tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the tender, crispy squid. Each bite offers an invigorating crunch!
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Chili Dipping Sauce: A zesty sauce with hints of sweetness and spice enhances the flavor of the squid, providing a delightful contrast that ignites your taste buds.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: This lightly sautéed green holds a mild flavor that balances the richness of the squid, creating a harmonious plate that is both colorful and healthy.
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Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to complement the seafood flavors. Its smooth finish enhances the dining experience while adding a touch of tradition.
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Mango Salad: A sweet and zesty mango salad brings a tropical element to your meal, harmonizing beautifully with the spicy notes of the squid.
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Sesame Noodles: These savory, cold noodles topped with sesame seeds offer a delightful texture and flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the squid’s crunch.
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Coconut Milk Soup: A warm, fragrant soup infused with coconut and ginger provides a cozy contrast, enveloping your senses with comforting flavors, perfect for sharing at the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Salt and Pepper Squid are ideal for meal prep, helping you save precious time on busy weeknights. You can prepare the batter and coat the squid up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, if you’re planning a gathering, you can fry the squid ahead of time and store them in a lidded container for up to 2 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore that delightful crispiness. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your cooking experience as enjoyable as the flavors!
Savory Salt and Pepper Squid Variations
Feel free to tailor this dish to your tastes or dietary needs, creating a unique twist for everyone to enjoy!
- Seafood Swap: Substitute squid with shrimp for a sweeter flavor and faster cook time. They’ll still crisp up beautifully!
- Plant-Based Option: Use tofu instead of squid; just ensure it’s extra firm and well-pressed for the best texture when frying.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free flour in the batter for a dish everyone can savor without worry. The crunch will still be divine!
- Kick it Up: Add Cayenne Pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra heat boost that pairs perfectly with the aromatic garlic and ginger.
- Five-Spice Twist: Incorporate a sprinkle of Chinese five-spice powder into the batter for an aromatic, complex flavor profile that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for a bright finish and a pop of color.
- Sweet and Spicy: Try a touch of honey or sugar to the garlic-ginger sauté for a sweet balance to the heat; it creates a delightful flavor contrast!
- Crunch Upgrade: Toss in finely chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews mixed with the scallions before serving. They bring a lovely texture and nutty flavor!
With these variations, you can always keep your savory salt and pepper squid experience fresh and exciting!
Expert Tips for Savory Salt and Pepper Squid
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Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 180°C (350°F) for crispy squid; too cool and they’ll absorb oil, becoming soggy.
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Batch Frying: Fry your squid in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring an even cook and that perfect crunchy texture.
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Resting Time: After frying, let the squid rest on paper towels for a minute; this allows excess oil to drain, keeping them crispier.
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Dredging Matters: Don’t skip the dredging step with cornstarch and flour—this creates that amazing crunchy exterior that everyone loves.
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Fresh Aromatics: Sauté garlic, ginger, and chili right before serving for maximum flavor impact; they release wonderful aromas that elevate your savory salt and pepper squid!
Storage Tips for Savory Salt and Pepper Squid
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy savory salt and pepper squid immediately after cooking for optimum crispiness. However, if necessary, it can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer to regain that delightful crunch!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked squid in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
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Reheating: To restore crispiness, avoid the microwave. Instead, reheat your savory salt and pepper squid in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes.
Savory Salt and Pepper Squid Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best squid for this recipe?
When selecting squid, look for ones with a mild ocean scent and firm, shiny skin. Avoid any that are slimy or have dark spots all over, as this may indicate age and poor quality. Fresh, whole squid typically yields the best flavor, but you can also find cleaned squid for convenience.
What is the best way to store leftover cooked squid?
Store leftover savory salt and pepper squid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To help preserve crispiness, you can initially keep them uncovered for about 15-20 minutes before sealing to let any steam escape. When you’re ready to reheat, an air fryer is ideal; it restores the crunchy texture beautifully!
Can I freeze savory salt and pepper squid?
Absolutely! For freezing, let your cooked squid cool completely before placing them in a sealed freezer bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make your savory salt and pepper squid gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the batter and dredging mixture. Ensure your salt and pepper seasoning is free from any gluten-containing ingredients as well.
What should I do if my squid turns out chewy?
If your squid becomes chewy, it may have been overcooked. To avoid this, make sure to fry them in small batches for just 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and then remove them immediately. Not overcrowding your pan also helps maintain the right oil temperature for perfect cooking every time!
Is it safe for pets?
While squid can be safe in small amounts for pets like dogs, it’s essential to prepare it simply without seasonings or oils. However, avoid giving it to cats or dogs with seafood allergies. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet.
Savory Salt and Pepper Squid: Your New Quick Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, your salt and pepper seasoning, and 1 cup of cold water until you achieve a smooth texture. Coat the squid evenly in this light batter.
- Dredge the Squid: On a clean plate, combine the remaining flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Dredge each piece of battered squid in this mixture.
- Heat the Oil: In a wok or a deep frying pan, pour in 2 cups of vegetable oil and heat it to 180°C (350°F).
- Fry the Squid: In small batches, carefully lower the squid into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain Oil: Remove the fried squid from the wok and place them on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same hot oil, add minced garlic, ginger, and fresh chili. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Combine and Serve: Quickly return the fried squid to the wok, toss in the chopped scallions, and combine everything before serving hot.