Squid/ Calamari pepper fry is a simple yet delicious appetizer that can be prepared in just about 30 minutes. Squid, freshly ground spices and ghee come together to make this dish lip smacking and spicy. However, if you cannot freshly grind spices, you can always use the already powdered ones which gives almost the same taste.

If you are a seafood lover, then you must definitely try this recipe. Continue reading if you want to know how to make this simple yet delicious squid pepper fry.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

ingredients:

250g squid tubes (without tentacles)
3 tbsp ghee
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped
Curry leaves, handful
Cashews, handful
2 dried red chillies, split into halves
2 tsp lime juice(Optional)
Salt to taste

For Marinade:
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Salt

For Blending:
1 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tsp Jeera seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
5-6 curry leaves

procedure:

1. Thoroughly rinse the squid under running water and slice the tubes into 1 cm rings.
2. Transfer it into a big bowl. Then add turmeric powder and some salt, mix well and let the squid marinate for 10 – 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Meanwhile, dry roast black peppercorns, coriander seeds, jeera seeds, and 5-6 dry curry leaves in a pan on low flame until the spices turn aromatic(Make sure you do not burn them). Allow the ingredients to cool, then blend in a coarse powder.
4. Heat ghee in a cooking pan on medium heat. Fry a handful of curry leaves, dried chili, chopped ginger, minced garlic, and a handful of cashews on low heat.
5. Sauté finely chopped onion until transparent and soft.
6. Stir in the marinated calamari and sprinkle some salt over it. Cover and cook until there is no water content left in the pan and calamari is well cooked.
7. Transfer the freshly powdered dry masala mixture into the cooking pan. Combine to coat squid with all the masala and stir fry on low heat for 2-3 minutes. Turn off the heat.
8. Drizzle some lime juice over and serve right after.

note:

• You can tweak the quantity of each ingredient as per your taste and preference.
• Refrain from overcooking squid as it makes squid rubbery and hard. 
• Squid pepper fry tastes best when fresh and warm.

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