Sweet & Spicy Calamari

Calamari

• 1 pound calamari tubes (frozen is fine)
• 6 ounces of club soda
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 3 dashes salt and pepper
• vegetable oil for frying
• sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Sweet & Spicy Sauce

• 4 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 6 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Asian sesame oil

1. Slice the calamari tubes into rings about 1/4 inch wide.
2. Pour the club soda into a medium bowl, place the calamari rings in the club soda, stir until all are submerged. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile combine the flour, salt and pepper, toss until combined. Set aside.
4. Combine the chili garlic sauce, honey and sesame oil, mix well. Set aside.
5. Drain the calamari, blot dry.
6. Dredge the calamari, one at a time, in the flour mixture and set on a plate until ready to fry.
7. Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep, heavy pot to 375 F. Once ready, place 1/4 of the calamari in the oil and fry for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until golden. Don't overcrowd. When you pull it out, place on a paper towel-lined plate and blot gently. Repeat.
8. Toss with prepared sauce and garnish with sesame seeds if you happen to have them on hand OR serve sauce alongside the calamari. Enjoy!!