Discover how to make Calamares a la Romana, the ultimate Spanish appetizer featuring crispy, battered squid rings. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers perfectly golden and tender calamari every time, served with a zesty lemon wedge for added flavor. Ideal for a quick snack or elegant starter, these fried squid rings are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) squid rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Prepare the Squid:
- Rinse the squid rings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Ensure they are thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
Batter the Squid:
- Dip the squid rings into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess batter.
Heat the Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or large pot over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small drop of batter sizzles immediately.
Fry the Squid:
- Carefully place the battered squid rings into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the rings are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the squid from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve:
- Serve the Calamares a la Romana hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the crispy squid rings.
Enjoy your homemade Calamares a la Romana as a delicious and impressive appetizer or snack!
Nutritional Value
Squid Rings (1 pound or 450g)
- Approximately 92 calories
- 15g protein
- 1g fat
- 3g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Rich in protein and low in fat. Provides essential minerals such as selenium and zinc, and is a good source of vitamins like B12.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
- Approximately 364 calories
- 10g protein
- 1g fat
- 76g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Provides energy through carbohydrates. Can be a source of fiber if whole grain or enriched varieties are used.
Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Negligible calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
Benefits:
- Used as a leavening agent to make the batter light and crispy.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
- Approximately 282 calories
- 14g protein
- 13g fat
- 54g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and color. Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and E.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Approximately 331 calories
- 16g protein
- 1g fat
- 72g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Enhances flavor. Provides health benefits such as immune support and cardiovascular health.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Negligible calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
Benefits:
- Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
- Approximately 255 calories
- 10g protein
- 3g fat
- 64g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May aid digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.
Egg (1 large)
- Approximately 72 calories
- 6g protein
- 5g fat
- 1.6g carbohydrates
Benefits:
- Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline.
Cold Sparkling Water (1 cup)
- Negligible calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
Benefits:
- Adds lightness to the batter. Can be a refreshing low-calorie beverage.
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- Varies depending on the type and amount used.
Benefits:
- Used for frying to achieve a crispy texture. Can be high in calories and fats, so use in moderation.
Lemon Wedges (for serving)
- Negligible calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrates.
Benefits:
- Adds a fresh, tangy flavor. Provides vitamin C and can enhance the taste of the fried squid.
Total Benefits:
This dish combines squid, which is low in fat and high in protein, with a crispy, flavorful batter. The use of spices and seasonings enhances taste while adding nutritional benefits. Lemon wedges provide a refreshing touch and additional vitamin C.
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