Are you a calamari and seafood lover?
Calamari is a staple on any Italian restaurant’s menu, and it has even worked its way into more traditional American restaurants. Preparations vary from region to region, but calamari is a delicacy in more places than just Italy. In the most basic of definitions, calamari is fried squid. Though it may not be the tastiest looking sea creature, looks can be deceiving. It is delicious! The term itself refers specifically to the Mediterranean-style preparation with red marinara sauce and lemon; however, the word is used loosely throughout the United States.
What is It?
Although calamari refers to a specific preparation of the animal in areas of Spain and Italy, the word is used interchangeably with squid on some menus. Most preparations come with the meat cut into bite-sized portions that have then been battered and deep fried. Calamari rings come from slicing the mantle of the squid, and they resemble onion rings. Squid legs can also be served alongside the rings of calamari. Though the meat is chewy, it can be made more tender with marinating it. The dish traditionally has a slightly sweet flavor that is complemented by the firm white meat. Parsley and lemon are frequently used to garnish the dish. Squid is a great source of protein, iron, and calcium.
Preparations
Most preparations of calamari are made using squid less than one foot in length. When preparing the dish from the whole animal, it involves removing the head, cartilage, and innards from the squid. Then, one must cut the mantle so that small rings are formed. After is it cus, the squid meat is battered and fried at a very high heat. It can be garnished with an array of spices and served with dipping sauces. The most popular sauces that calamari is served with are marinara sauce, mayonnaise, or cocktail sauce.
Calamari Questions? Try It For Yourself at Costas Inn!
Since 1971, Costas Inn has been a Baltimore tradition. Our restaurant was recently featured on the Food Network with Michael Symon on Burgers, Brew, and ‘Que! We were voted 2015 #1 Baltimore Seafood Restaurant by USA Today, as well as #1 Crab Restaurant 2014 in the Baltimore Business journal. We have appeared nine times on the Today show and been interviewed on countless occasions on WJZ TV Channel 13 with Ron Matz and Marty Bass.
Come on down and try our famous crab cakes. Now, you can even order them online for whenever you get a craving! We provide the best seafood and seafood catering in Baltimore City and the surrounding area. Want even more from Costas Inn? Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube for news, events, and to keep up with what we are doing.
