When it comes to cooking fried calamari, the key to achieving that perfect texture and flavor is by using fresh and high-quality calamari rings. The calamari should be sliced thinly and carefully cleaned before being coated with a mixture of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Once the calamari rings are coated, they are ready for frying.
To deep-fry the calamari rings, an oil temperature of around 375°F is suitable. The fried calamari rings should only take a few minutes to cook, and they should be removed from the oil when they turn golden brown. The fried calamari rings should be served immediately, so they maintain their crispy outer layer.
The next step is to prepare the spicy pumpkin sauce. This sauce is made by blending freshly roasted pumpkin, cumin powder, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a food processor. The resulting sauce should be a smooth puree, which packs a punch with its bold flavor and aroma.
The spicy pumpkin sauce is rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. It’s an excellent match for the crisp and tender calamari rings. The spiciness from the chili flakes in the pumpkin sauce complements the mild taste of the calamari rings, creating an exciting and flavorful fusion.
To serve, lay the crispy calamari rings on a plate and generously spoon the spicy pumpkin sauce over them. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or coriander, and serve immediately.
In conclusion, fried calamari with spicy pumpkin sauce is an outstanding dish that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect appetizer for a seafood dinner party or a snack for a quiet evening at home. The crispy texture of the calamari rings combined with the creamy and spicy pumpkin sauce creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves calamari and wants to taste its unique fusion with pumpkin sauce.