
Crispy Calamari Recipe
Served with a spicy marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Spicy Marinara Sauce
Method
To Prepare the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Coating
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- 3
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Coat the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings first into the egg mixture and then into the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Fry the coated calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
To Make the Spicy Marinara Sauce
- 7
- 8
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 9
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 10
Finish with Fresh Basil
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped fresh basil and remove from heat.