Calamares is the Filipino version of the Mediterranean breaded fried squid dish, Calamari. There are different methods on how to make this dish; the most usual does not involve breadcrumbs. However, I chose to add breadcrumbs for this recipe for visual appeal and a crunchier texture.

So, what is the difference between Calamares and Calamari besides the spelling? 🙂 Well, there is no big difference at all. The only difference that I noticed is the dipping sauce. Calamari is often dipped in marina or other tomato based sauce while Filipino Calamares is dipped in spiced vinegar or toyo mansi.

I enjoy this dish when spiced vinegar is around. This makes a real good “pulutan” (beer food) too. Do you also like to pair Calamares with beer?If in case you are having a hard time looking for fresh squids, you may always purchase the packaged squid rings for calamari. These are located on the frozen food section of most supermarkets or grocery stores.

Squid can be prepared for consumption in other ways. In Korea, it is sometimes served raw, and elsewhere it is used as sushi, sashimi and tempura items, grilled, stuffed, covered in batter, stewed in gravy and served in stir-fries, rice, and noodle dishes. Dried shredded squid is a common snack in some Asian countries, including East Asia.

(CTTO)