Calamari Special

Directions

1. 1
   Firstly, prepare a deep-fryer with a good vegetable oil and heat to 375 degrees F, or use a medium size deep frying pan on high heat.
2. 2
   Defrost calamari and rinse under cold running water.
3. 3
   Cut calamari into 1/4 inch strips. If using fresh calamari, just cut into 1/4 inch strips. Pat dry calamari with paper towels.
4. 4
   In a medium size mixing bowl, mix together flour and Panko bread crumbs.
5. 5
   Add milk to a bowl and dip calamari in the milk.
6. 6
   Toss calamari strips in flour/crumb mixture just to coat. You do not want to have a heavy coating as it could drop off when frying.
7. 7
   Flash fry coated calamari in prepared deep-fryer or frying pan for about 15 seconds, deep frying in small amounts.
8. 8
   In a frying pan, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil to medium-high heat.
9. 9
   Add garlic and Sambal Oelek and stir well, cover with a screen to prevent oil from spattering or splashing.
10. 10
    Saute flash-fried calamari for about 1 minute or until nicely light brown. Do not over fry as it could get chewy.
11. 11
    Serve calamari with your favorite dip.