Instructions: Heat 4 inches of neutral-flavored oil in large heavy pot to 360 degrees.

In a medium bowl, combine squid pieces and egg white, mixing gently but thoroughly. Sift together flour and cayenne. Drain squid.

Working in batches, drop a handful of squid into seasoned flour and toss to coat evenly. Lift out of flour, shake to remove excess, and drop carefully into hot oil. Cook briefly until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove squid from oil with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining squid until all are cooked. Sprinkle with salt and serve with lime wedges.

This recipe yields 4 appetizer servings.

Comments: To clean squid, pull gently on the tentacles to separate them from the hood; most of the intestines will pull out as well. Cut off the tentacles below the eyes and reserve. Pull out long plastic like "quill" and discard it and the intestines. Rinse out the hoods and, if desired, pull off the purple skin with your fingers or a paper towel. Slice body into 1/4-inch rings. Set rings aside with the tentacles until needed.

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