Crispy Fried Squid with Garlic and Pepper

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup)
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Squid (1 pound, cleaned and sliced into rings)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Garlic Aioli (for serving)
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup)
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
• Garlic (1 clove, minced)
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, black pepper, and salt to create a seasoning mixture.
2. Add the cleaned and sliced squid to the bowl, tossing gently to coat the squid evenly with the seasoning. Allow it to marinate for 10 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch until well combined.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a small piece of squid; it should sizzle upon contact.
5. Dredge the marinated squid rings in the flour and cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid clumping.
6. Carefully place the coated squid rings into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried squid onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. For the garlic aioli, in a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt to taste. Stir until well combined.
9. Serve the crispy fried squid immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for a zesty kick and accompanied by your homemade garlic aioli.