Fried Squid (Chopitos)

At Restaurante La Venus in Marbella, we offer a classic Mediterranean delight: Fried Squid (Chopitos). This dish brings out the best of Andalusian cuisine, with perfectly golden and crispy baby squid that are juicy on the inside. It’s a favorite for seafood lovers, ideal for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a main course.

Ingredients for Fried Squid (Chopitos) for 4 People

• 500 grams of medium squid

• 50 grams wheat flour (for battering)

• 50 grams chickpea flour (for battering)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Mild olive oil for frying

• Lemon wedges (optional, to serve)

• Aioli or tartar sauce (optional, to accompany)

How to Prepare Fried Squid (Chopitos)

1. Prepare the Squid

   • Wash the squid under cold water, remove the outer skin, and drain well. Separate the tentacles and cut the squid’s body into 2 or 3 parts, depending on the size. Lightly season with salt and mix well.

2. Prepare the Battering Mixture

   • In a deep dish, mix the wheat flour with the chickpea flour. If you prefer, add a little garlic powder to the mixture for an extra burst of flavor. Integrate the mixture thoroughly.

3. Heat the Oil

   • Heat plenty of olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat until the oil reaches a temperature of around 180-190°C. You can check the temperature using a kitchen thermometer or by dropping in a small piece of bread—if it bubbles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.

4. Batter the Squid

   • Coat the squid pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-covered. Shake off any excess flour by placing them on a sieve.

5. Fry the Squid

   • Place the floured squid carefully into the hot oil in small batches to avoid clumping. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

6. Drain and Serve

   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried squid from the oil and place them on kitchen paper to remove any excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges and, if desired, aioli or tartar sauce for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Fried Squid (Chopitos)

• Use Fresh Squid: We recommend using fresh, high-quality squid to ensure the best flavor and texture.

• Andalusian-Style Frying: For that authentic Andalusian touch, mix chickpea flour with wheat flour. This ensures a light and crispy batter without the need for egg.

• Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a perfectly crispy texture without making the squid greasy.

What to Serve with Fried Squid (Chopitos)

• Pairing: Enjoy the crispy Fried Squid (Chopitos) with a glass of chilled white wine or sangria for the perfect Mediterranean dining experience.

• Garnish: Serve with fresh lemon wedges and a side of aioli or tartar sauce for an extra burst of flavor.