Crispy Calamari from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse features tender calamari rings lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty marinara sauce and fresh lemon wedges, offering a delightful combination of crunchy texture and savory flavor.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Serving plates
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Lemon squeezer (optional)
- Sauce ramekin
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) calamari rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 lemons
Calamari rings should be fresh or properly thawed to ensure a tender texture after frying. Using a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a light, crispy coating that fries evenly. Seasoning the batter with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika adds depth to the flavor profile. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola, for frying to achieve a golden finish without overpowering the taste. You can recreate the Crispy Calamari from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat menu by focusing on these ingredient details for authentic crunch and flavor.
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry calamari rings using paper towels.
- Slice lemons into wedges using a chef’s knife and cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Preheat oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge calamari rings in flour mixture, ensuring each ring is well-coated.
- Shake off excess coating.
- Carefully lower coated calamari into hot oil using tongs.
- Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Warm marinara sauce and pour into sauce ramekin.
- Transfer crispy calamari to serving plates.
- Garnish with lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.
Substitution
Crispy Calamari from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat menu delivers a perfectly golden, crunchy appetizer with tender calamari rings and tangy marinara sauce. When fresh calamari is unavailable, frozen rings can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to maintain crispiness. If deep frying is not an option, pan-frying in a generous amount of oil can produce a similar texture with careful attention to heat. Using a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a lighter batter, and alternative starches like rice flour can be substituted for gluten-free needs. Your lemon wedges can be juiced with a lemon squeezer or simply squeezed by hand to add a fresh, zesty finish.
Tips
Ensure calamari rings are completely dry before dredging to help the flour mixture adhere properly and achieve maximum crispiness. Maintain the oil temperature at a consistent 350degF (175degC) throughout frying to prevent soggy or greasy calamari. Avoid overcrowding the fryer; cooking in small batches preserves the oil temperature and ensures even frying. Serve the calamari immediately after frying while hot and crisp, pairing with zesty marinara and fresh lemon wedges to enhance Your dining experience.
Nutritions
Crispy Calamari from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse provides a protein-rich seafood option with moderate calories, largely influenced by the frying process and batter composition. Each serving delivers essential nutrients such as vitamin B12 and selenium from the calamari, while the all-purpose flour and cornstarch contribute carbohydrates for energy. The zesty marinara sauce adds antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, complementing your meal with healthful benefits. To maintain a balanced diet, consider enjoying your crispy calamari with fresh lemon wedges that enhance flavor without adding extra calories.
Storage
Store leftover crispy calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain its texture and flavor. For best results, reheat calamari in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness while avoiding sogginess. Keep marinara sauce separately in a sealed container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve its fresh taste for your next serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour or a gluten-free blend to achieve an even lighter, crispier texture for your calamari. Experimenting with spices such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the batter adds an extra depth of flavor, enhancing the savory notes. For a healthier variation, consider baking the coated calamari rings at 425degF (220degC) for about 12-15 minutes instead of deep frying, turning halfway through to maintain crispiness. Serving with a garlic aioli or spicy remoulade provides a creamy contrast to the zesty marinara, giving your dish a unique twist.
Allergies
Crispy Calamari contains seafood, specifically squid, which is a common allergen that can cause reactions ranging from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. The dish's batter uses wheat-based all-purpose flour, which may trigger gluten allergies or intolerance in some people. Your best option is to confirm ingredient details with BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse if you have seafood or gluten allergies before ordering.
Why this recipe?
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Crispy Calamari stands out for its perfectly golden, crunchy texture paired with tender, flavorful squid, offering an irresistible appetizer experience. The dish is complemented by a zesty marinara sauce and a side of creamy jalapeno dipping sauce, enhancing its rich and savory taste profile. Making a copycat version at home allows you to recreate this popular menu item with fresh ingredients and tailored seasoning, ensuring a satisfying snack or starter. Your effort in replicating Crispy Calamari delivers an authentic taste that seafood lovers appreciate for its balance of crispiness and zest.