Calamari Recipe
Fried calamari served with marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Marinara Sauce
Method
For the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Begin by patting the cleaned calamari dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- 2
Make the Breading Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- 3
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Coat the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring first into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it in the breading mixture. Shake off any excess breading.
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Once fried, remove the calamari with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while hot.
For the Marinara Sauce
- 8
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix well.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Finish with Fresh Basil
Before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil and remove from heat.