16 Chinese Restaurant Calamari Recipe Discover Culinary Perfection!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
For those who love seafood, one dish that never fails to satisfy is Chinese restaurant calamari. This popular appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, known for its crispy texture and unique flavor. While it may seem intimidating to recreate at home, with the right recipe and techniques, you can easily make this delicious dish in your own kitchen. In this article, we will share with you a professional and well-organized introduction to the Chinese restaurant calamari recipe, guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise Low Fat, Sriracha, Calamari, Buttermilk Low
Looking for a delicious and easy appetizer for your next party or family dinner? Look no further than this recipe for fried calamari with spicy mayonnaise. The crispy coating and flavorful dip are sure to be a hit with everyone.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari. Cut the tubes into rings and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. Dip the calamari rings in the flour mixture and fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
While the calamari is frying, make the spicy mayonnaise by mixing together mayonnaise, hot sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
Once the calamari is cooked, serve it hot with the spicy mayonnaise for dipping. It's a simple and delicious appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.
2of 17
Crispy Calamari with Pesto Mayonnaise
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dijon
If you love the combination of seafood and pesto, then you have to try this recipe for crispy calamari with pesto mayonnaise. The herbaceous flavors of the pesto perfectly complement the crispy and tender calamari.
To make this dish, start by making the pesto mayonnaise. In a food processor, blend together basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and garlic. Slowly add in mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Next, prepare the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and spices like oregano and onion powder. Dip the calamari rings in the flour mixture and fry them until golden brown and crispy.
Serve the crispy calamari with the pesto mayonnaise for dipping. Your taste buds will thank you for this delectable combination.
3of 17
Seafood & Tofu Soup (Quick Chinese Soup)
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Scallops, Prawns, Calamari, Chicken Stock, Water
This recipe for seafood and tofu soup is a quick and easy Chinese-inspired dish that is perfect for a chilly night. The combination of seafood, tofu, and flavorful broth makes for a comforting and satisfying soup.
To make this soup, start by preparing the broth. In a pot, mix together chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer and add in diced tofu, shrimp, and scallops. Let cook until the seafood is fully cooked.
In a separate pot, cook noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, add the noodles to the soup and let simmer for a few more minutes. Serve hot and enjoy this savory and delicious soup.
4of 17
Kung Pao Calamari
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Cooking Oil, Sichuan Peppercorns, Green Bell
Put a twist on the classic Chinese dish with this recipe for Kung Pao calamari. The flavors of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili paste give this dish a spicy and tangy kick that pairs perfectly with tender calamari.
To make this dish, start by marinating the calamari in a mixture of cornstarch, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar. In a separate pan, stir-fry bell peppers, onions, and cashews. Then add in the marinated calamari and stir-fry until cooked.
In a small bowl, mix together hoisin sauce, chili paste, and garlic. Pour the sauce over the cooked calamari and vegetables and stir until everything is coated. Serve over rice for a delicious and flavorful meal.
Main Ingredients: Seafood, Large Shrimp, Calamari, Scallops, Chicken
This recipe for seafood bird nest is a fun and creative way to serve up a delicious seafood dish. Crispy fried egg noodles are topped with a flavorful mix of shrimp, scallops, and mussels, all drizzled with a savory sauce.
To make this dish, start by frying egg noodles until they are crispy and golden brown. In a separate pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables. Add in the seafood and cook until fully cooked.
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the seafood and vegetables and stir until coated. Then place the stir-fry on top of the crispy noodles to create a "bird nest" effect. Serve hot and enjoy this unique and tasty dish.
6of 17
Fried Calamari
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Buttermilk, Flour, Paprika, Salt, Black
For a simple and classic way to enjoy calamari, look no further than this recipe for fried calamari. The crispy coating and tender calamari make for a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and spices like garlic powder and paprika. Dip the calamari rings in the flour mixture and fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Serve the fried calamari with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or main dish.
7of 17
Sautéed Calamari
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Tentacles, Olive Oil, Minced Garlic, Kosher
If you're looking for a healthier way to enjoy calamari, then try this recipe for sautéed calamari. This dish is cooked in a flavorful mix of lemon juice, butter, and white wine for a light and delicious meal.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a pan, sauté garlic, shallots, and bell peppers until softened. Then add in the calamari and cook until tender.
Add in lemon juice, butter, and white wine and let simmer until the sauce thickens. Serve over pasta or rice for a tasty and healthy meal.
8of 17
Calamari a La Plancha
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Tentacles, Kosher Salt, Olive Oil, Chopped
If you're looking for a unique way to cook calamari, then try this recipe for calamari a la plancha. This Spanish-inspired dish is cooked on a hot griddle, giving the calamari a delicious charred flavor.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, and chili flakes. Brush the mixture onto the calamari and let marinate for a few minutes.
Heat a griddle or pan over high heat and place the calamari on top. Cook for a few minutes on each side until charred and cooked through. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for a delicious and unique dish.
9of 17
Shrimp Shumai
Main Ingredients: Large Shrimp, Egg White, Potato Starch, Salt, Pork Fat
Shumai, also known as siu mai, are a popular Chinese dumpling that are steamed and filled with a delicious mixture of shrimp, vegetables, and spices. This recipe for shrimp shumai is a must-try for any seafood lover.
To make this dish, start by preparing the filling. In a food processor, blend together shrimp, garlic, ginger, and green onions. In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the mixture to the shrimp and pulse until combined.
Place a spoonful of the filling onto a wonton wrapper and fold into a dumpling shape. Steam the dumplings for a few minutes until fully cooked. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and impressive appetizer.
10of 17
Seafood Siomai
Main Ingredients: Large Shrimp, Egg White, Potato Starch, Salt, Pork Fat
Siomai, also known as shumai, are a popular dim sum dish that are filled with a delicious mixture of shrimp, scallops, fish, and vegetables. This recipe for seafood siomai is a tasty and unique way to enjoy this Chinese favorite.
To make this dish, start by preparing the filling. In a food processor, blend together shrimp, scallops, fish, and vegetables. In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the mixture to the seafood and pulse until combined.
Place a spoonful of the filling onto a wonton wrapper and fold into a dumpling shape. Steam the dumplings for a few minutes until fully cooked. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and unique appetizer.
11of 17
Crispy Fried Calamari
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Kosher Salt, 2 Milk, All Purpose Flour
This recipe for crispy fried calamari is a classic and delicious way to enjoy this tasty seafood. The tender calamari is coated in a crispy and flavorful batter, making it the perfect appetizer or main dish.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and spices like garlic powder and onion powder. Dip the calamari rings in the flour mixture and fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Serve the crispy fried calamari with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and satisfying meal.
12of 17
BAKED CALAMARI
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Egg, Almond Flour, Seasoning, Lemon
For a healthier twist on fried calamari, try this recipe for baked calamari. The calamari is coated in a flavorful and crispy breadcrumb mixture and baked in the oven for a guilt-free and tasty dish.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a separate bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices like oregano and garlic powder. Dip the calamari rings in the breadcrumb mixture and place on a baking sheet.
Bake the calamari for about 15 minutes until crispy and fully cooked. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and healthier alternative to fried calamari.
13of 17
Seafood Linguine Fra Diavolo
Main Ingredients: Linguine, Kosher Salt, Seafood, Scallops, Calamari
This recipe for seafood linguine fra diavolo is a spicy and flavorful pasta dish that is sure to be a hit with seafood lovers. The combination of shrimp, mussels, and clams in a spicy tomato sauce makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by preparing the seafood. In a large pot, cook linguine according to package instructions. In a separate pot, cook garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and tomato paste until fragrant. Then add in shrimp, mussels, and clams and cook until fully cooked.
Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the pot with the seafood and toss until coated in the spicy tomato sauce. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and spicy dish.
14of 17
Seafood Paella
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Arborio
This recipe for seafood paella is a Spanish-inspired dish that is filled with a delicious mix of shrimp, clams, mussels, and chorizo. The saffron-infused rice and flavorful seafood make for a hearty and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by cooking chorizo in a large pan until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened. Then add in rice, saffron, and chicken broth and let simmer until the rice is cooked.
Add in the cooked chorizo and seafood to the pan and let cook until the seafood is fully cooked. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish.
15of 17
Fried Calamari with Romesco
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Milk, Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Salt
Romesco is a flavorful Spanish sauce made with roasted red peppers, almonds, and bread. This recipe for fried calamari with romesco is a unique and delicious way to enjoy this sauce, making for a tasty and impressive dish.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. Dip the calamari rings in the flour mixture and fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
To make the romesco sauce, blend together roasted red peppers, almonds, bread, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Serve the fried calamari with a drizzle of the romesco sauce for a unique and flavorful dish.
16of 17
Lemon Pepper Grilled Calamari
Main Ingredients: Calamari, Fresh Lemon Juice, Cracked Pepper, Fresh
For a healthier and flavorful way to enjoy calamari, try this recipe for lemon pepper grilled calamari. The tender calamari is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper, giving it a tangy and delicious flavor.
To make this dish, start by preparing the calamari by cutting the tubes into rings and patting them dry. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Brush the mixture onto the calamari and let marinate for a few minutes.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and place the calamari on top. Cook for a few minutes on each side until fully cooked. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for a light and tasty meal.
17of 17
Seafood Soup
Main Ingredients: Cod, Calamari, Shrimp, Coconut Oil, Tomato Sauce
This recipe for seafood soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold night. The combination of shrimp, clams, and cod in a savory broth makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Secret to Perfect Chinese Restaurant Calamari
One of the key elements of a great Chinese restaurant calamari dish is the perfect balance of flavors. The crunchy exterior should be complemented by a tender and flavorful interior. To achieve this, many restaurants use a technique called tenderizing. This involves marinating the squid in a mixture of salt, cornstarch, and water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a tender and juicy calamari.
Choosing the Right Calamari
To achieve the best results, it is important to choose the right type of calamari. Look for fresh or frozen calamari in your local seafood market or grocery store. Squid tubes are the best option for this recipe as they are easy to cut and have a mild flavor. Avoid buying pre-breaded calamari, as this will result in a less crispy and flavorful dish.
The Perfect Batter
The key to a crispy and flavorful batter for your calamari is a combination of cornstarch and flour. The cornstarch adds the desired crunch, while the flour helps to bind it all together. To add an extra layer of flavor, you can also add some seasoning to the batter. Garlic powder, paprika, and chili flakes are some popular options. Be sure to mix the batter well and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before using.
Frying Techniques
When it comes to frying your calamari, there are two important things to keep in mind. First, make sure the oil is hot enough. The ideal temperature for frying is around 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You can test this by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready. Second, do not overcrowd the pan. Frying too many calamari at once will lower the oil temperature and result in a greasy and soggy dish.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese restaurant calamari is usually served with a side of sweet and sour sauce or plum sauce for dipping. To add some extra heat, you can also serve it with a side of chili sauce or Sriracha. For a complete meal, serve it with some rice and stir-fried vegetables. The combination of crispy calamari and flavorful sauces is sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
In conclusion, with the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of practice, you can easily recreate the delicious Chinese restaurant calamari in your own kitchen. Whether you are looking to impress your guests or simply craving this popular dish, this recipe is a must-try. So, what are you waiting for? Get your apron on and start cooking!
