We couldn’t resist ordering Rabas de calamar at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto in Llanes because the calamari is known to be delicious in this area. Also, the view of the port from the restaurant’s terrace was perfect for enjoying a seafood dish.
Quick facts about Rabas de calamar
- Also known as: Fried Calamari Strips
- Definition: Rabas de calamar is a Spanish tapa made with squid, usually fried, served hot, and known for its crispy texture.
- Where we ate it: Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto, Llanes
- Context: Rabas de calamar are popular in the North of Spain, especially in Asturias and Cantabria. They were invented in Santander as a more affordable replacement for the fried octopus tapa. “Rabas” is how fishermen referred to cured octopus legs, and the fried version became widely popular in the 18th century. That’s why Rabas de calamar are made by cutting the body of the squid into strips and not in rings, like in other parts of Spain, where they are known as Calamares a la Andaluza or Calamares a la Romana.
- Served: hot
- Texture: crispy
- Flavour: savoury
- Pronunciation: rrah-bahs deh kah-lah-mahr
- One-line verdict: One of the must-try tapas in Llanes, since this area is famous for the quality of its calamari.
Why it’s worth ordering
Llanes is known for its fish and seafood, including calamari, so it’s worth ordering the Rabas de calamar. The ones we tried at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto were prepared very well. We could tell the calamari was fresh, and we liked that there was no strong fried oil smell around the kitchen.
Taste and texture
The Rabas de calamar at Sidrería Restaurante El Puerto in Llanes were perfectly crispy on the exterior and soft inside. They had enough salt and didn’t taste heavy from the oil. Also, the calamari itself tasted fresh and a bit sweet. The whole experience was fantastic because we were on the terrace and could enjoy the views of the port.
How to order it
When the waiter comes to get your order, simply say “Las Rabas de calamar, por favor”. Like other tapas, this is a dish to share with friends and family and would be too much for just one person.
Watch it
Quick decision guide
You’ll like it if: you like seafood and fried food.
If you want something similar: Calamares fritos or Boquerones fritos.
Frequently asked questions
Good Rabas de calamar don’t taste fishy. The key is getting fresh calamari and having the oil changed frequently.
Most restaurants add a wedge of lemon, and you can squeeze it over the calamari to add a bit of acidity. Don’t add too much or the batter will get soggy.
No, Rabas de calamar are usually prepared with a coating of wheat or chickpea flour.
