Caribbean-style Calamari Sandwich

Ingredients

In this Caribbean adaptation, the traditional Spanish Bocadillo de Sepia is transformed into a vibrant and tropical delight. The original dish typically features calamari served with aioli and lemon, while the Caribbean version incorporates a zesty marinade, Caribbean spices, and a refreshing mango salsa. These additions infuse the dish with the vibrant flavors and tropical ingredients characteristic of Caribbean cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Bocadillo de sepia, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings 1 lb (450g) calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Caribbean spice blend (such as jerk seasoning) 1 tsp Caribbean spice blend (such as jerk seasoning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 small sandwich buns 4 small sandwich buns
• 1 cup (150g) diced mango 1 cup (150g) diced mango
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced red bell pepper 1/2 cup (75g) diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the calamari, lime juice, minced garlic, Caribbean spice blend, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Fry the marinated calamari in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, lime juice, orange juice, and salt. Mix well to make the mango salsa.
5. 5.
   Toast the sandwich buns until lightly golden.
6. 6.
   Assemble the sandwiches by placing a generous amount of crispy calamari on each bun and topping it with the mango salsa.
7. 7.
   Serve the Caribbean-style Calamari Sandwiches immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Calamari — Ensure the calamari is thoroughly cleaned before slicing it into rings to remove any grit or debris.
• Caribbean spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made Caribbean spice blend, you can create your own by combining spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, allspice, and garlic powder.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the calamari marinade.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Caribbean spice blend used.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of plantain chips for an authentic Caribbean experience.
• If you can't find fresh mango, you can substitute it with canned mango chunks.
• Customize the sandwich by adding sliced avocado or pickled onions for additional flavor and texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean-style Calamari Sandwiches with a side of plantain chips and a refreshing tropical fruit salad for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the sandwiches with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. Serve them on a wooden board or a vibrant Caribbean-themed plate to capture the essence of the dish.