CookSnap is coming soon — Join the waitlist →

Salt and Pepper Squid

Crispy fried squid rings coated in a savory salt and pepper seasoning with a hint of garlic. A classic Chinese appetizer that's ready in under 20 minutes.

Total time
18 min
Servings
2
Calories
285
Protein
32g
Salt and Pepper Squid
Chineseseafoodappetizerfriedquick

Ingredients

  • ½ kg squid
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 liter vegetable oil
  • 2 stalks fresh scallions
  • 1 whole red chili peppers

Instructions

  1. 1

    Clean squid by removing the head and tentacles. Peel off the purple skin and rinse thoroughly. Cut the body into 0.5-inch rings and leave tentacles whole.

  2. 2

    Pat squid dry with paper towels. This is essential for crispy texture.

  3. 3

    In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, white pepper, and garlic powder.

  4. 4

    Slice scallions and chili peppers into thin rings. Set aside for garnish.

  5. 5

    Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Test temperature with a piece of squid — it should sizzle immediately.

  6. 6

    Working in batches, coat squid pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess.

  7. 7

    Carefully add squid to hot oil and fry for 1.5–2 minutes until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.

  8. 8

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  9. 9

    Transfer squid to a serving plate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt and pepper.

  10. 10

    Garnish with scallions and chili peppers. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tools you’ll need

  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • paper towels
  • shallow bowl
  • deep-frying pan or wok
  • thermometer
  • slotted spoon
  • serving plate

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

CookSnap is a free iOS app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations.