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.