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Benihana Calamari Recipe

Benihana Calamari Recipe

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Make Benihana-style calamari at home with this easy hibachi copycat recipe. Tender calamari rings sautéed with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil—perfect as an appetizer or party dish.

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb fresh calamari rings ,
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs, plain or panko
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk , or buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika, optional
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Rinse the 1 lb fresh calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying well helps the coating stick and ensures crispy results.
  • In one bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour , 1 tsp salt , 1/2 tsp black pepper , and 1/2 tsp paprika (if using).
  • In a second bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk).
  • In a third bowl, place the 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Dredge each calamari ring in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  • Dip into the egg mixture to coat evenly.
  • Press into the breadcrumbs until fully covered.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
  • Arrange the coated calamari in a single layer in the basket (do not overcrowd).
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove the calamari from the air fryer and serve immediately with Lemon wedges for a bright, tangy finish.

Equipment

  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 188kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 14gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.004gCholesterol: 175mgSodium: 436mgPotassium: 223mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 113IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 2mg