The Delicious Combination of Agave and Calamari

The Delicious Combination of Agave and Calamari

Calamari, also known as squid, is a popular appetizer or main course in many cuisines around the world. When lightly battered and fried, the tender squid rings and tentacles become a crispy, savory treat. While calamari is often served with marinara sauce or savory aiolis, chefs are also exploring new flavor combinations to wow their guests' palates.

One such exciting pairing is agave and calamari. Agave is a natural sweetener made from the juice of the agave plant, commonly found in Mexico. With its mild, smooth sweetness, agave complements the briny taste of squid remarkably well. Drizzled over fried calamari or mixed into the batter, agave transforms this seafood into a unique taste sensation.

The Origins of Fried Calamari

Frying squid into crunchy morsels has been popular for centuries in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. In Italy, fried squid was sold as street food called fritto misto di mare. During the early 20th century, Italian immigrants brought their recipes for scungilli fritti, or fried squid, to the United States.

Initially uncommon in American cuisine, fried calamari was popularized by Italian-American chefs and restaurateurs in the 1970s and 1980s. Deep-fried and served with marinara sauce, the dish became a menu staple at Italian restaurants across the country. Nowadays, fried calamari is celebrated in American cuisine and adored by seafood fans far and wide.

Making Crispy, Tender Calamari

Achieving the perfect fried calamari requires using high-quality squid and frying it correctly. When buying squid, choose specimens that are whole with clear eyes and an ocean-fresh scent. Clean them thoroughly, removing the head, innards, and any beak or cartilage.

Slice the squid tubes into rings about 1/2-inch thick, and leave small tentacles whole. Rinse the pieces in cold water and then pat dry. This helps prevent excess moisture from splattering when frying.

For optimal texture, fry the calamari in small batches at high heat—between 350-375°F—for 1-2 minutes. Use a light, crispy batter made with sparkling water or beer. Fry just until golden brown, then drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt.

Coating Calamari in Sweet Agave

Fried calamari is often served with tomato-based marinara sauce, herb-infused aiolis, or savory cocktail sauces for dipping. However, the sweet flavor of agave also balances the briny, umami taste of squid perfectly.

There are several ways chefs incorporade agave syrup into fried calamari dishes:

• Add 2-3 tablespoons of agave into the calamari batter before frying
• Toss the fried calamari pieces in a light agave glaze
• Serve the calamari with agave as a dipping sauce, mixed with lime juice or hot sauce
• Drizzle the fried calamari with agave syrup before serving

The agave soaks into the crispy batter coating, adding sweetness to contrast the squid's salty flavor. Alternating bites of warm, tender calamari with the mellow sweetness of agave makes for an irresistible flavor experience.

Innovative Ways Chefs Use Agave Calamari

Inspired chefs across the globe are using agave to create innovative takes on classic fried calamari. Here are some exciting menu items to try:

Agave Sriracha Calamari

The popular Thai hot sauce pairs perfectly with agave's smooth sweetness. Dunking crisp calamari into an agave-infused Sriracha sauce makes for addictive snacking.

Tequila Agave Calamari

In this unique dish, tequila and lime are incorporated into the batter. Fried until golden and crispy, the calamari is tossed in a zesty glaze of tequila, butter, agave nectar, lime juice and zest, cilantro, and chili powder.

Agave Miso Calamari Salad

Crisp calamari tentacles and greens are tossed in a bright citrus-miso dressing made with agave. Topped with avocado, radish, and cilantro, it's a refreshing take on fried calamari.

Agave Chipotle Calamari Tacos

Warmed corn tortillas are loaded with agave chipotle glazed calamari, shredded cabbage, avocado, and Mexican crema. A sweet and spicy flavor fiesta in every bite!

From glazes to batters and creative global flavors, agave elevates fried calamari to new taste heights. This versatile sweetener adds subtle sophistication that delights palates craving seafood with a twist.

The Benefits of Cooking with Agave

Beyond its innate culinary versatility, agave syrup also offers some excellent benefits for cooking:

• Neutral flavor - Agave has a very mild, neutral taste that sweetens without overpowering other ingredients.
• Low glycemic index - Made mostly of fructose, agave doesn't spike blood sugar levels as much as regular sugar.
• Vegan - Sustainably produced agave nectar offers a plant-based, cruelty-free sweetener.
• Smooth texture - Agave blends seamlessly into glazes, batters, and sauces with a smooth, pourable consistency.

Beyond calamari, agave brings its unique sweet twist to seafood, meat, veggies, drinks, and desserts. It satisfies cravings for sweetness in a natural, better-for-you way.

Sustainable Agave Production

To produce its many culinary and health benefits responsibly, quality agave nectar comes from growers committed to sustainable practices. Choosing fair trade agave supports rural farming communities in Mexico and protects precious agave species for future generations.

When shopping for agave, look for reputable brands that use organic, non-GMO agave plants. Avoid products with additives and seek ones with certifications for fair trade, sustainable farming methods.

With mindful, eco-friendly production methods, agave offers a delicious sweetener that delights taste buds while nurturing the planet and its people.

FAQs

What is agave calamari?

Agave calamari refers to fried calamari or squid that is prepared with agave syrup. The agave adds a subtle sweetness that complements the briny seafood flavor beautifully.

How is agave used with calamari?

There are a few different ways agave can be incorporated into calamari dishes. It can be added directly to the batter, used to make agave glazes or dipping sauces, or drizzled over the finished fried calamari.

What does agave syrup taste like?

Agave has a very mild, neutral taste. It provides sweetness without being overpowering. The flavor is smooth and subtle.

What is the benefit of cooking with agave?

Agave offers benefits including a low glycemic index, neutral flavor that doesn't overwhelm dishes, and a smooth consistency that blends easily into glazes and sauces.

Is agave syrup vegan?

Yes, quality agave nectar produced through sustainable practices is vegan, organic, and non-GMO. It offers a plant-based, cruelty-free sweetener.