Polenta Coated Calamari

Our answer

Nigella's Quick Calamari With Garlic Mayonnaise omits the usual 3 stage breading process and tosses the squid with a combination of cornflour, semolina and seasonings. The cornflour and semolina give a crisp and crunchy coating once the squid has been fried.

Semolina is made from durum wheat and is not as fine as flour. Finely ground polenta would be a good substitute but make sure that it is finely ground and also that it is not the quick cooking type, as this is made from pre-cooked polenta. You may also find it labelled as finely ground cornmeal. Always check the label on the packaging as some brands can contain traces of gluten from cross-contamination during processing. We also understand that Old Bay seasoning is gluten-free but you can use paprika as an alternative if you prefer. If you are using store-bought mayonnaise then also check that it is gluten-free, as some brands can contain gluten.