Kalamar tava is a traditional dish that's usually served as a meze. The dish consists of cleaned squid that's cut into thick rings, soaked in milk, then dipped in a batter of flour, baking soda, and salt before it's fried in hot oil. The squid rings can be flavored with herbs or pepper flakes, if desired.

Once fried, the rings are typically served with a Turkish tartar-like sauce on the side for dipping, along with a few lemon wedges.