Fried Calamari

Ingredients

• 1 pound calamari tubes, thawed if frozen
• peanut oil for frying
• 6 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, or to taste
• 1 wedge lemon

Steps

1. Inspect the calamari for breaks, then cut into 1/8- to 1/4-inch rings.
2. Bring the oil to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) in a deep-fryer or large saucepan.
3. Put 2 cups flour in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk the milk and eggs together. Thoroughly mix the remaining 4 cups flour with the cornstarch, paprika, salt, pepper and cayenne in a third bowl.
4. Toss the calamari rings in the plain flour, then coat thoroughly in the egg mixture. Transfer to the seasoned flour and coat fully. If not thoroughly coated, return them to the egg mixture and coat again with seasoned flour.
5. Lower the floured calamari into the hot oil and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per batch, until golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and let the oil drip off, then drain on paper towels. Put the calamari in a small bowl and check the seasoning.
6. Garnish with the parsley and lemon wedge.