Fried Squid With Red Pepper Mayonnaise

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Make the mayonnaise. Tear the ancho chili into strips and soak it in half a cup of hot water for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Cut the pepper in quarters or eighths and remove the seeds. Place the pepper strips skin side up on a broiling rack. Broil until the skin becomes charred. Place the strips in a sealed paper bag for a couple of minutes, then peel off the skin.

2. Step 2

   Combine the chili, pepper strips, lemon juice and enough chili soaking liquid to make a smooth puree in the food processor. Blend until smooth.

3. Step 3

   Either make the mayonnaise by hand, first beating the egg yolk with a fork, then adding the peanut and olive oils little by little and beating them in until you have a smooth emulsion. Or make the mayonnaise in a food processor. Stir in the pepper puree and correct the seasoning. Place in a small bowl.

4. Step 4

   Heat enough peanut or vegetable oil to come about an inch up the sides of the pan. Lightly dredge the squid in seasoned flour and fry quickly, for a couple of minutes on each side, turning once and removing with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels. Do not crowd the pan. Fry in batches, if necessary. Serve immediately with the mayonnaise on the side.