Five-Spice Calamari with Dipping Sauce Recipe

Name: Five-Spice Calamari with Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons oriental sesame oil; 2 tablespoons minced shallot; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 2 teaspoons fish sauce (nam pla)*; 1 teaspoon dry mustard; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; Vegetable oil (for frying); 1 cup all purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder**; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; 15 ounces cleaned calamari, tentacles left whole, bodies cut into 1/2-inch rings

Servings: persons

2 tablespoons oriental sesame oil
2 tablespoons minced shallot
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons fish sauce (nam pla)*
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder**
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup buttermilk
15 ounces cleaned calamari, tentacles left whole, bodies cut into 1/2-inch rings

1
Combine all ingredients except mayonnaise in processor.
2
Blend well.
3
Transfer to bowl.
4
Stir in mayonnaise.
5
(Can be prepared 1 day ahead.
6
Cover and refrigerate.
7
Whisk before serving.)
8
Pour oil to depth of 3 inches in heavy large pot.
9
Heat to 350F.
10
Whisk next 4 ingredients in large bowl to blend.
11
Pour buttermilk into another large bowl.
12
Add calamari to buttermilk.
13
Working in batches, remove calamari; dredge in flour mixture.
14
Fry until just crisp, about 2 minutes.
15
Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper-towel-lined plate to drain.
16
Serve warm with sauce.
17
*Available in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.
18
**A blend of ground anise, cinnamon, star anise, cloves and ginger available in the spice section of most supermarkets.

736

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave for a slightly different but equally rich sweetness.
Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 16 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 tablespoons oriental sesame oil, 2 tablespoons minced shallot, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and more.

Yes, Five-Spice Calamari with Dipping Sauce falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Five-Spice Calamari with Dipping Sauce

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions