Crispy & Juicy! Homemade Squid Rings with Special Tartar Sauce (No Pickles Needed!)
Learn how to make crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside squid rings right at home! This recipe highlights the natural flavor of squid with a light batter. Plus, discover how to create a delicious tartar sauce without pickles, packed with tangy and sweet notes. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a simple side dish!
Today, we’re turning leftover squid into a delightful treat! This recipe features a thin, crispy batter that lets the squid’s chewy texture shine. We’ve also crafted a special tartar sauce that’s rich in flavor, even without traditional dill pickles. Experience the perfect harmony of crispy squid and a zesty, sweet tartar sauce. Let’s get cooking!
For the Crispy Squid
- 1 portion of cleaned squid (approx. 100-150g)
- 2 Tbsp tempura flour
- 2 ice cubes (optional, for extra crispiness)
Special Tartar Sauce
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp honey (or corn syrup)
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp finely minced onion
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp honey (or corn syrup)
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp finely minced onion
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare your portion of squid. If you’re using thawed squid, you can proceed directly to cooking without additional preparation. (Using leftover squid from other dishes is also a great option!)
Step 2
We’ll coat the squid lightly with tempura flour. Take a clean plastic bag, add 2 tablespoons of tempura flour, and then add the squid. Close the bag tightly and shake well. This method ensures an even, thin coating of flour, making the process quick and easy.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the tempura batter. In a bowl, add 3 tablespoons of tempura flour and gradually pour in water while mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. Aim for a batter that’s not too thick or too thin, but rather flows smoothly. For extra crispiness, add 2 ice cubes to the batter. (The ice cubes are optional.)
Step 4
Add the flour-dusted squid into the prepared tempura batter. Stir gently to ensure the squid is evenly coated with the batter.
Step 5
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, dip the tip of a chopstick into the batter and carefully drop a bit into the oil. If the batter sinks briefly and then sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is at the perfect temperature for frying.
Step 6
Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the battered squid pieces into the pan, one by one. Tilting the pan slightly can help you fry with less oil while ensuring the squid cooks evenly. Fry until golden brown and crispy. You’ll have perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside squid rings!
Step 7
While the squid is frying, let’s quickly whip up the tartar sauce. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add 2 tablespoons of finely minced onion. (If you enjoy a bit more texture, feel free to add extra minced onion.) Traditional tartar sauce often includes pickles for a tangy kick. If you have pickles, finely chop them and add them here. Even without pickles, this sauce will be delicious!
Step 8
Whisk all the sauce ingredients together with a whisk or fork until well combined. Finish with a pinch of black pepper and give it one last mix. Your delightful tartar sauce is ready!
Step 9
Enjoy the irresistible combination of freshly fried crispy squid rings and homemade tartar sauce! The light batter minimizes greasiness, allowing you to fully savor the chewy and tender texture of the squid. The sweet and tangy tartar sauce perfectly cuts through any richness, enhancing the overall flavor. (Store-bought chili sauce is served on the side as an optional accompaniment.)
Step 10
Even without dill pickles, the combination of honey and lemon juice creates a wonderfully balanced tartar sauce. Its sweetness and tanginess awaken the palate and amplify the taste of the fried squid.
Step 11
These homemade squid rings are incredibly crispy on the outside and surprisingly moist on the inside. Unlike some store-bought versions that have a thick batter and scant squid, these allow you to truly enjoy the plumpness of the squid. While it takes a bit more effort, the satisfaction of making them yourself is well worth it.
Step 12
For those who prefer lighter fried foods, this recipe with minimal batter is ideal. Even without added seasoning, the natural savory flavor of the squid makes them delicious on their own.
Step 13
Serve with the homemade tartar sauce and optional chili sauce for an enhanced experience. Squid rings are a universally loved dish, so if you have leftover squid, this is a fantastic way to use it! They make a wonderful snack for kids or a delightful appetizer with drinks.
