Chopitos Fritos with Garlic Aioli
Crispy fried baby squid with a punchy garlic aioli and fresh lemon — the Spanish tapas classic that tastes like it took hours but comes together in 15 minutes. Serve hot, dip constantly.
- Total time
- 15 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 480
- Protein
- 28g
Ingredients
- ¾ lb baby squid (cleaned), divided
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups neutral cooking oil (for frying)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 whole garlic cloves, minced
- 1 whole lemon (halved)
Instructions
- 1
Pat squid dry with paper towels. Mix mayo, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- 2
Heat oil in a heavy skillet or pot to 350°F (use a thermometer). Toss squid with flour in a shallow bowl until coated.
- 3
Working in batches, slide squid into hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes total. Do not crowd the pan.
- 4
Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate. Season immediately with salt and black pepper while still hot.
- 5
Arrange chopitos on a serving plate. Dollop garlic aioli alongside. Serve with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.
Tools you’ll need
- paper towels
- small bowl
- shallow bowl
- heavy skillet or deep pot
- instant-read thermometer
- slotted spoon
- plate lined with paper towels
- serving plate
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