What To Know
- This is because the squid is made up of mostly protein, and when heated too long or at too high a temperature, it can become tough and chewy.
- A squeeze of lemon juice can help to brighten the flavor of the calamari and make it more appealing.
- Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and reheat the calamari for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
You’ve got leftover calamari, and you’re craving that crispy, salty goodness. But how do you reheat it without turning it into a rubbery mess? The microwave might seem like the easiest option, but it can be tricky to get right. Fear not, calamari lovers! This guide will walk you through the best methods for reheating calamari in the microwave, ensuring your leftovers are just as delectable as the first time around.
Understanding the Challenges of Reheating Calamari
Calamari is a delicate dish that can easily become rubbery or soggy when reheated. This is because the squid is made up of mostly protein, and when heated too long or at too high a temperature, it can become tough and chewy. The breading, which adds that delightful crunch, also presents its own challenges. It can become soggy if exposed to too much moisture, or burn if heated too quickly.
Prepping Your Calamari for Microwave Reheating
Before you even think about pressing that “start” button, there are a few things you need to do to prepare your calamari for microwave reheating:
- Start with room temperature calamari: Taking your calamari out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes will help it reheat more evenly.
- Remove excess moisture: If your calamari is wet from being stored in the refrigerator, pat it dry with paper towels. This will help prevent it from steaming in the microwave and becoming soggy.
- Spread it out: Don’t overcrowd the microwave dish. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece of calamari to allow for even heating.
The Best Microwave Reheating Methods
Now that your calamari is prepped, let’s explore the best methods for reheating it in the microwave:
1. The Paper Towel Method
This method is great for reheating smaller portions of calamari.
- Line a microwave-safe plate with paper towels.
- Arrange the calamari on top of the paper towels.
- Cover the calamari with another layer of paper towels.
- Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
The paper towels will absorb excess moisture, helping to keep the calamari crispy.
2. The Plate & Water Method
For larger portions of calamari, this method can help to prevent the breading from becoming too dry.
- Place calamari on a microwave-safe plate.
- Add a small amount of water to the bottom of the plate.
- Cover the plate with plastic wrap, leaving a small opening for steam to escape.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
The steam from the water will help to rehydrate the calamari and keep it moist.
3. The Baking Method
This method is for those who want the crispiest possible calamari.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the calamari out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
This method will give your calamari a crispy texture and a slightly golden brown color.
Tips for Reheating Calamari in the Microwave
- Check the calamari frequently. Since microwaves can vary in power, it’s important to check the calamari every 15-20 seconds to ensure it doesn’t overheat.
- Don’t overcook. Overcooked calamari will be tough and rubbery. It’s better to err on the side of undercooked and reheat for a few more seconds if needed.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice. A squeeze of lemon juice can help to brighten the flavor of the calamari and make it more appealing.
Reheating Calamari: Beyond the Microwave
While the microwave is a convenient option, it’s not the only way to reheat calamari. Here are some alternative methods:
- Air fryer: The air fryer is a great way to reheat calamari and get it nice and crispy. Heat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Oven: You can also reheat calamari in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
- Skillet: For a quick and easy reheat, you can use a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat and reheat the calamari for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
The Best Way to Reheat Calamari: A Final Verdict
The best way to reheat calamari is ultimately a matter of personal preference and what equipment you have available. However, the paper towel method is a great option for most people as it’s simple, quick, and helps to keep the calamari crispy. For larger portions, the plate & water method can be a good alternative. And if you want the crispiest possible calamari, the baking method is the way to go.
Reheating Calamari: The Final Word
No matter which method you choose, the goal is to reheat your calamari evenly and without making it rubbery or soggy. By following the tips and techniques outlined above, you can ensure your leftover calamari is just as delicious as the first time around.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I reheat calamari in the microwave for longer than 60 seconds?
A: It’s not recommended to reheat calamari in the microwave for longer than 60 seconds at a time. Doing so can cause the calamari to become tough and rubbery.
Q: Can I reheat calamari with sauce in the microwave?
A: It’s best to reheat calamari without sauce in the microwave. The sauce can become too hot and splattered all over the microwave. Reheat the sauce separately if needed.
Q: What if my calamari is still cold after reheating?
A: If your calamari is still cold after reheating, try reheating it for a few more seconds in the microwave. You can also try using a different reheating method, such as the air fryer or oven.
Q: Can I reheat calamari multiple times?
A: It’s not recommended to reheat calamari multiple times. Each time you reheat it, the texture will become tougher and the flavor will diminish. It’s best to enjoy your calamari within a day or two of cooking it.
