The delightful crunch and vibrant flavor of Salt and Pepper Squid whisk me away to my favorite seaside bistro, where the salty breeze mingles with the sounds of happy diners. The first time I tasted this dish, I couldn’t believe something so incredibly delicious could be made at home in just 20 minutes! With crispy, golden squid rings enveloped in a light batter, perfectly seasoned with a hint of spice and the freshness of scallions and chilies, this recipe is not just a meal but a celebration of flavor.
The beauty lies in its simplicity—perfect for a busy weeknight or an impromptu gathering with friends. The ease of preparation means you’ll have more time to enjoy what truly matters: good company and delicious food. Forget about fast food; this dish is just what you need to elevate your evening without any stress. Let me take you through the steps to create this irresistible appetizer that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
Why is Salt and Pepper Squid a must-try?
Crispy Delight: These squid rings turn incredibly crispy in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect dish for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The mix of salt, white pepper, scallions, and chilies creates an irresistible, savory flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Use: Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering or enjoy it as a satisfying snack—the choice is yours!
Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and basic frying skills, you’ll feel like a pro chef in your own kitchen.
Crowd Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress your family and friends, making it a favorite for any occasion.
For a complete experience, pair it with a refreshing dipping sauce or a side of fresh salad to balance the flavors perfectly.
Salt and Pepper Squid Ingredients
For the Squid
• 10 oz cleaned squid tubes – cut into rings for a delightful bite.
• Oil – for deep-frying, ensuring your squid gets that crispy texture.
For the Batter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – provides the base for a light and crunchy coating.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch – for that extra crispiness in your Salt and Pepper Squid.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps the batter puff slightly during frying.
• 1 egg white – this binds everything together for a light coating.
• 1/2 cup water – makes the batter smooth and easy to coat.
• 1 pinch salt – enhances the overall flavor of the batter.
For the Stir-Fry
• 1/2 tablespoon oil – for quick frying scallions and chilies, adding depth.
• 2 tablespoons chopped scallions – brings a fresh, aromatic element to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon chopped red chilies – adds a pleasant kick, adjustable to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – or to taste, perfect for finishing off the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper – will intensify the flavor profile brilliantly.
How to Make Salt and Pepper Squid
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Rinse and Prepare: Rinse the cleaned squid under cold water, then gently pull the tentacles away from the head. Discard any cartilage from the tube and slice into perfect rings.
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Dry Thoroughly: Pat the squid rings very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for a crispy texture; moisture can prevent them from frying properly.
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Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, egg white, water, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps for a light coating.
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Heat the Oil: In a wok or deep frying pan, heat 2 to 3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). This hot oil is what will give your squid that unforgettable crunch.
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Fry the Squid: Carefully drop the squid rings into the hot oil, using a spatula to gently loosen them right away. Fry until they turn a lovely golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
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Drain Excess Oil: Once crispy, remove the squid with a strainer or slotted spoon. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil.
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Sauté Scallions and Chilies: In a skillet, heat the 1/2 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Quickly add the chopped scallions and red chilies, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Combine and Serve: Add the fried squid to the skillet, sprinkling with salt and white pepper. Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed, then transfer to a serving plate and enjoy hot.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Salt and Pepper Squid are fantastic for meal prep, bringing ease to your busy cooking schedule! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, egg white, water, and salt, and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Additionally, the cleaned squid can be cut into rings and refrigerated for up to 2 days before frying. To maintain their crispiness, ensure you pat the squid dry thoroughly before battering. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the oil and fry the squid for about 3-4 minutes until golden. With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy that same delightful crunch and flavor without the hassle!
What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Squid?
Experience the irresistible crunch and zesty flavors of this delightful dish paired with perfect companions.
- Crispy French Fries: Golden, crunchy fries complement the squid’s texture while soaking up any lingering flavors. Perfect for a laid-back meal!
- Garlic Dipping Sauce: A creamy, garlicky dip enhances the flavors of the squid, adding an extra layer of richness that makes each bite a delight.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing, tangy slaw with cabbage and carrots balances the rich squid, adding a delightful crunch and bright flavors.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice is the perfect base to soak up any spices or dips served with the squid, giving your meal a satisfying foundation.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the squid while keeping the meal feeling light and refreshing.
- Mango Salad: Sweet and vibrant, a mango salad brings bright flavors that contrast beautifully with the savory squid, making for an enticing meal!
- Sesame Noodles: Tangy, nutty noodles provide a hearty touch to the dish and offer a delightful mix of flavors that keep your taste buds dancing.
- Crisp Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens and veggies adds freshness, creating a lovely, light contrast to the salty, crispy bites of squid.
- Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa offers a tropical fruity twist that cuts through the seafood’s richness with every bite.
Salt and Pepper Squid Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and give your Salt and Pepper Squid a delicious twist with these imaginative variations.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch to create a crispy batter that everyone can enjoy. You’ll find that the gluten-free option holds up beautifully in the frying process!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or extra chopped chilies to the batter for a fiery flavor boost that spice lovers will rave about. Your taste buds will embark on a warming adventure!
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Coconut Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour for coconut flour for a lightly sweet and nutty flavor profile. This twist makes for a delightful, tropical experience alongside the crispy texture.
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Lemon Zest: Mix in some freshly grated lemon zest into the batter for a citrusy brightness that elevates the dish. The zest complements the savory notes, making every bite refreshing.
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Sesame Oil: Replace the stir-frying oil with sesame oil for a rich, aromatic taste. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving enhances the crunch and flavor!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, into the stir-fry ingredients for an aromatic kick. This addition brings a vibrant, garden-fresh taste to your dish.
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Sweet and Sour: Drizzle with a sweet and sour sauce after frying for a tangy contrast to the crispy squid. This fun flavor combination is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness.
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Sriracha Aioli: Serve your Salt and Pepper Squid with a side of Sriracha aioli for a creamy, zesty pairing. The spice of Sriracha perfectly complements the crispy texture, creating a match made in heaven!
Expert Tips for Salt and Pepper Squid
• Drying is Key: Ensure you pat the squid dry thoroughly before coating. Excess moisture can lead to soggy squid instead of a crisp result.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to check the oil’s temperature. If it’s too cool, the squid will absorb oil; too hot, and it can burn quickly.
• Batter Consistency: Your batter should be smooth and free of lumps. Adjust the water if needed to achieve the right coating consistency for your Salt and Pepper Squid.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping. This ensures each squid ring fries up crispy and golden.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chilies based on your heat preference; a little more can bring an extra kick!
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the squid right after cooking while they’re still warm and crispy!
How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Squid
Fridge: Store leftover Salt and Pepper Squid in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze any uneaten squid in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, either use an oven or an air fryer for best texture; avoid microwaving, which can make it soggy.
Batter Preparation: If you have leftover batter, store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but prefer making it fresh for optimal results.
Salt and Pepper Squid Recipe FAQs
How should I select squid for the best texture?
Absolutely! Look for squid that has a firm and glossy appearance. The flesh should be opaque and free of any dark spots. Ideally, choose squid that has been cleaned already; this saves you the hassle and lets you enjoy your delicious dish without delay!
How do I store leftover Salt and Pepper Squid?
Store your leftover Salt and Pepper Squid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Squid? How?
Certainly! To freeze your Salt and Pepper Squid, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This lets it stay fresh for up to 2 months! When it’s time to enjoy again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
What can I do if my squid turns out chewy?
Very! If your squid has turned out chewy, it may have been overcooked or didn’t get dried enough before frying. To avoid this, ensure the squid is patted dry thoroughly and fried for the right amount of time—typically about 3-4 minutes at the right oil temperature (350°F/175°C).
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish to friends or family, be sure to check for any seafood allergies or sensitivities. For your pets, keep this dish away, as it contains ingredients that might not be safe for them. Moreover, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix.
How can I reheat leftover Salt and Pepper Squid effectively?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the squid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 5-10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, using an air fryer can also achieve that perfect crunch without drying them out!
Crispy Salt and Pepper Squid Recipe You’ll Love at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the cleaned squid under cold water, gently pull the tentacles away from the head, discard cartilage, and slice into rings.
- Pat the squid rings dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, egg white, water, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Heat 2 to 3 inches of oil in a wok or deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the squid rings into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the squid and drain excess oil on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil, quickly add chopped scallions and red chilies, stirring until fragrant.
- Add the fried squid to the skillet, sprinkle with salt and white pepper, mix well, and serve hot.