Southern-Style Cornmeal Fried Calamari

Origin and Cultural Significance

Southern-Style Cornmeal Fried Calamari combines the crispy seafood traditions of the American South with the beloved Mediterranean staple of fried squid. Rooted in Southern U.S. cooking, where cornmeal crusts are iconic, this version gives calamari a bold, rustic flair. It celebrates coastal flavors, often served at fish shacks or low country boils along the Gulf Coast. This fusion brings together generations of culinary heritage in a single crispy bite.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

This version features calamari rings coated in a seasoned cornmeal mix with Cajun spices, giving it a distinct Southern crunch. The crust is crispier and heartier than traditional flour batters, with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for smoky heat. Each piece is golden, savory, and perfect for dipping in remoulade or hot sauce. The flavor is bold, spicy, and unmistakably Southern.

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Southern-Style Cornmeal Fried Calamari

Southern-Style Cornmeal Fried Calamari is a regional take on a popular seafood appetizer, swapping flour for seasoned cornmeal to create a rich, textured crust. Calamari rings are dredged in a blend of cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, and paprika, then fried until golden brown. It’s crunchy, spicy, and pairs beautifully with tangy dipping sauces. This version is hearty, flavorful, and ideal for serving hot and fast.

Cooking Method: Deep Frying, Frying Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, Top Rated, Viral Foods Recipe Keys: A Appetizer D Deep Fried S Southern Cuisine

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 5 mins Rest Time 20 mins Total Time 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Cooking Temp: 375  F

Ingredients

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Servings

• 
  1 lb squid rings – cleaned and patted dry
• 
  ¾ cup cornmeal – fine grind
• 
  ¼ cup all-purpose flour – helps bind coating
• 
  1 tsp Cajun seasoning – or Creole seasoning
• 
  ½ tsp paprika – smoked or sweet
• 
  ¼ tsp cayenne pepper – optional for extra heat
• 
  ½ tsp garlic powder
• 
  ½ tsp salt
• 
  1 egg beaten
• 
  2 tbsp buttermilk or water – to loosen egg wash
• 
  Oil for deep frying – vegetable or canola oil
• 
  Lemon wedges – for serving
• 
  Remoulade or hot sauce – for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Squid

1. Pat the squid rings dry and set aside on paper towels. Moisture prevents the coating from sticking well.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt.

Step 3: Prepare Egg Wash

1. In another bowl, beat the egg and add buttermilk (or water) to create a light wash.

Step 4: Coat the Calamari

1. Dip squid rings into the egg wash, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture until well coated.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

1. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes until crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a side of dipping sauce like remoulade or spicy mayo.

Nutrition Facts

1208kcal

Calories

95g

Protein

108g

Carbs

44g

Fat

g

Sugar

Show Full Nutrition Label

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 4-6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 1208kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 44g68%

Total Carbohydrate 108g36%

Protein 95g190%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Don’t overcrowd the fryer or pan—calamari needs space to stay crispy.

Adjust seasoning to your spice level preference—Cajun seasoning varies in heat.

Keywords: southern fried calamari, cornmeal calamari, Cajun squid recipe, crispy seafood appetizer, southern seafood