If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that perfectly crunchy, wildly flavorful bite of seafood goodness, this Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe is absolutely for you. It combines tender baby squid and squid tubes coated in a light, airy batter, seasoned with just the right balance of salt and pepper to create a snack or appetizer that’s simply irresistible. With its golden crispy exterior and subtle, peppery heat, this dish brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, or the dish’s gorgeous golden hue, making it surprisingly simple to pull off something that tastes so impressive.
- 700 g / 1.4 lb medium whole baby squid: Use fresh or thawed to get tender, flavorful pieces with a satisfying bite.
- 500 g / 1 lb squid tubes (cleaned): These provide a nice size contrast and help showcase the crispy coating.
- 2/3 cup cornflour / cornstarch: The key to that light and crispy batter texture everyone loves.
- 1/3 cup plain / all-purpose flour: Adds structure and a little chew to the batter, balancing the cornflour perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps create a delicate crispness that’s not too dense.
- 1/2 tsp cooking / kosher salt: Brings out the natural sweetness of the squid and enriches the batter.
- 1/4 tsp white pepper powder: The subtle heat that defines the salt and pepper flavor profile.
- 2/3 cup cold tap water: Cold water is essential for a light batter that crisps up nicely.
- 3 – 4 cups vegetable or canola oil: Ideal for frying; use enough to submerge the squid pieces evenly.
- Pinch of cooking / kosher salt and white pepper powder: To season immediately after frying for maximum flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole egg mayonnaise (or kewpie): For a creamy, garlicky dipping sauce that complements the crunchy squid beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp finely grated garlic: Mix this into the mayo for a subtle punch of garlicky goodness.
How to Make Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Squid
Start by rinsing the baby squid and squid tubes under cold water. Pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure the batter sticks perfectly later. If the baby squid are whole, leave them as they are for a wonderful textural contrast in your dish.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornflour, plain flour, baking powder, salt, and white pepper powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. Then gradually pour in the cold tap water, stirring gently until you get a smooth batter that’s just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Using cold water here helps ensure the batter crisps up beautifully during frying.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour the vegetable or canola oil into a deep pot to about 4 cm (1.5 inches) depth and heat it to approximately 180°C (350°F). This is the perfect temperature to achieve that irresistible golden crust without making the squid greasy or tough.
Step 4: Coat the Squid
Dip each squid piece into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. This thin but crispy coating is what creates the signature crunch of this Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe. Work in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pot and maintain the oil temperature.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Carefully lower the battered squid pieces into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and the batter is crackling crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain any extra oil.
Step 6: Season Immediately
While still hot, sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and white pepper powder over the fried squid, tossing lightly to coat evenly. This finishing touch elevates the flavor, making every bite pop with seasoning and crunch.
How to Serve Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a wedge of fresh lemon or lime give the dish a vibrant, zesty kick that beautifully cuts through the richness of the fried coating. Fresh chopped parsley or coriander adds a splash of color and a delightful herbal note that balances the peppery seasoning perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe shines when paired with a crisp Asian slaw for crunch and tang or steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavors. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or a light noodle dish to keep the meal balanced and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your squid on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of garlic mayo and sweet chili sauce for dipping. Alternatively, toss the squid with freshly chopped chili and crushed peanuts for an extra kick and texture. Presenting it in mini bamboo steamers or on lettuce cups adds an elegant touch for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by some miracle you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the squid as crisp as possible, avoid piling pieces together and place a paper towel between layers to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy this Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe fresh as freezing tends to affect the texture of the crispy coating. However, if you need to freeze, flash-freeze the battered but uncooked squid pieces on a tray first, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, deep fry them straight from frozen, though know the crunch might be slightly reduced.
Reheating
To reheat leftover squid without losing all the crunch, use a hot oven or air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for a few minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as this will make the coating soggy and chewy.
FAQs
What kind of squid is best for this recipe?
Fresh or thawed medium baby squid and cleaned squid tubes work best as they cook quickly and maintain a tender texture. Avoid large squid as they can be tougher and require different cooking times.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornflour is also gluten-free. The texture will remain beautifully crispy.
How spicy is the salt and pepper seasoning?
The seasoning is gently spicy mainly from the white pepper, giving a warm, subtle kick without overwhelming the palate. You can adjust the pepper amount to suit your taste.
Is it necessary to use cold water in the batter?
Using cold water helps to create a lighter, crisper batter. It slows gluten development in the flour, which means a more delicate texture after frying.
What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
A garlic mayonnaise or kewpie mayo mixed with finely grated garlic is the perfect creamy complement. Sweet chili sauce or a tangy aioli also pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into tender squid enveloped in an irresistibly crispy, salty, and peppery coating. This Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both special and surprisingly easy to make. Once you master this recipe, it becomes a go-to for parties, dinners, or simply whenever you crave that crave-worthy crunch and flavor. So grab your apron, dive in, and enjoy every satisfying bite!
