Fried Calamari

Ingredients

• 1½ lb squid
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp capers
• 1 clove garlic
• 5 tbsp mayonnaise
• 4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 lemon (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Steps

1. Cut the squid into 1/2-inch thick rings. In a large freezer bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and capers. Shake well to mix. Add the squid to the bag and shake until all rings are well coated.
2. In a small bowl, mix crushed garlic with mayonnaise and set aside.
3. Pour vegetable oil into a large pan, ensuring it's about 3 inches deep but no more than one-third full. Heat over medium heat until a small piece of bread sizzles when dropped in.
4. Working in batches, remove a handful of squid from the flour, shaking off excess. Carefully drop into the hot oil.
5. Fry for about 3 minutes until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
6. Repeat with the remaining squid. Serve immediately with the garlic mayonnaise and lemon wedges.