Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender calamari rings lightly battered and fried until golden brown, served with a tangy and sweet Thai-style chili sauce. This thai-inspired seafood ready in about 30 minutes blends calamari rings, all-purpose flour, cornstarch into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Thai cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Rinse and pat dry 1 lb calamari rings with paper towels. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Gradually whisk in 3/4 cup cold water until a smooth batter forms with no lumps.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) — use a thermometer for accuracy.
  4. Step 4: Dip the calamari rings into the batter one at a time, allowing excess to drip off, then carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until the calamari are crisp and golden.
  5. Step 5: Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried calamari to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  6. Step 6: Serve the calamari hot with 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce and 4 lime wedges for squeezing over just before eating.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Crisped Fried Calamari with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce?

Thai seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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