If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crispiness with rich, zesty flavors, this Hot Butter Calamari Recipe will become your new favorite. It’s a mouthwatering celebration of tender calamari rings enveloped in a golden, crunchy crust, then tossed in a luxurious, butter-infused sauce bursting with garlic, spice, and a hint of citrus. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just indulge, this recipe delivers a simple yet unforgettable experience that brightens any dining table with warmth and excitement.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Hot Butter Calamari Recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of texture and taste. From the crisp coating to the vibrant hot butter sauce, every item ensures a flavor-packed outcome worth savoring.
- Calamari rings (1 lb): Fresh, cleaned rings provide the tender base with just the right amount of chew.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Forms the crispy framework for the calamari’s golden crust.
- Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Adds extra crunch and lightness to the coating.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors.
- Chili powder or cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp): Packs subtle heat that awakens the palate.
- Oil for deep frying: Use a high-smoke-point oil to achieve that perfect, crackling fry.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): The star of the sauce, lending richness and silky texture.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma and depth.
- Fresh red chilies (1–2, thinly sliced): Add fiery brightness to the sauce.
- Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Provides a savory umami kick that complements the butter.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brings zesty freshness balancing the richness.
- Fresh curry leaves or parsley (optional): For a fragrant note and beautiful garnish.
How to Make Hot Butter Calamari Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Calamari
Start by patting your calamari rings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to ensuring they crisp up beautifully when fried, so take your time to get them as dry as possible.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is your secret to that crunchy, flavorful crust that makes this Hot Butter Calamari Recipe truly special.
Step 3: Coat the Calamari
Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, making sure every surface is generously coated. This step locks in moisture and provides that irresistible crispness we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated calamari in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan—about 2 to 3 minutes each batch—until they turn golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil while keeping that perfect crunch intact.
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Butter Sauce
In a separate pan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic, sliced red chilies, and curry leaves if you’re using them. Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen, making it almost impossible to wait any longer.
Step 6: Combine and Toss
Stir in the soy sauce and lemon juice, then immediately toss the freshly fried calamari in the hot butter sauce. Make sure every ring is evenly coated with this luscious mixture for maximum flavor impact.
Step 7: Serve While Hot
Plate your Hot Butter Calamari Recipe and serve immediately while it’s still sizzling and crispy. The contrast of textures and the punch of bold flavors will wow anyone lucky enough to dig in.
How to Serve Hot Butter Calamari Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra curry leaves for a pop of green and an added layer of aromatic complexity. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to brighten each bite with a splash of citrus.
Side Dishes
This calamari pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a simple mixed greens salad, jasmine rice, or even garlic bread to soak up every bit of that irresistible buttery sauce. These companions balance the richness and keep the meal feeling fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Hot Butter Calamari Recipe in a warm cast-iron skillet for a rustic touch, or present them stacked elegantly on a platter dusted lightly with smoked paprika. For a fun twist, offer dipping sauces like a spicy aioli or tangy yogurt dip alongside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—though that’s rare—store the calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
While calamari is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze pre-fried calamari rings before saucing. Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover calamari in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the calamari rubbery and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen calamari for this Hot Butter Calamari Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry so that it fries up crisp without excess moisture making the coating soggy.
Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Adjust the amount of chili powder and sliced red chilies according to your heat preference. You can omit the fresh chilies altogether for a milder version.
What oil is best for deep frying calamari?
Choose oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. They provide the right heat needed for crisp frying without imparting unwanted flavors.
Can I prepare the hot butter sauce in advance?
While you can prepare the sauce ahead, it’s best to toss it with the calamari just before serving to keep the calamari crispy and the flavors fresh.
What if I don’t have curry leaves?
No worries! Curry leaves add a unique aroma but aren’t essential. Parsley is a great fresh alternative that adds color and a mild herbal note.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Butter Calamari Recipe is more than just an appetizer—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures that come together effortlessly. Whether it becomes the star of your next dinner party or a comforting treat for a weekend night in, I can’t recommend it enough. Give it a try and watch how this vibrant, crispy, buttery dish wins hearts every time.
Print
Hot Butter Calamari Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion (Asian-inspired)
Description
This Hot Butter Calamari recipe features crispy fried calamari rings tossed in a flavorful hot butter sauce infused with garlic, fresh chilies, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of flour, cornstarch, and chili powder, this dish delivers a delightful combination of crunch and spicy, tangy richness, ideal as an appetizer or a tasty snack for 4 servings.
Ingredients
Calamari and Coating
- 1 lb calamari rings (cleaned)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper
- Oil for deep frying
Hot Butter Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh curry leaves or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Pat Dry the Calamari: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the calamari rings dry. This step helps the coating stick better and ensures crispiness during frying.
- Prepare the Coating Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, chili powder (or cayenne pepper), salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Coat the Calamari: Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, making sure they are fully and evenly coated for a crisp crust.
- Deep Fry the Calamari: Heat oil in a deep pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated calamari rings in batches for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Hot Butter Sauce: In a separate pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic, sliced chilies, and curry leaves or parsley if using. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the soy sauce and lemon juice into the butter mixture. Toss in the fried calamari and gently mix to coat each ring evenly with the hot butter sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the hot butter calamari right away to enjoy the crispy texture and vibrant flavors while they are warm and fresh.
Notes
- Ensure the calamari is thoroughly dried before coating to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder or fresh chilies according to your preferred spice level.
- Frying in small batches will maintain the correct oil temperature and prevent soggy calamari.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor in the sauce.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh curry leaves for an aromatic touch or parsley for a fresh herbal note.
