Crispy Calamari Recipe
Served with a spicy marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Spicy Marinara Sauce
Method
Preparing Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- 3
- 4
Coat Calamari
Dip each calamari ring into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
Frying Calamari
- 5
Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
- 6
Fry Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- 7
Drain Calamari
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried calamari to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Making Spicy Marinara Sauce
- 8
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 10
Finish Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
Serving
- 11
Serve
Serve the crispy calamari hot with the spicy marinara sauce on the side for dipping.





