Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCarmelina'sCalamari Recipe

Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Carmelina's
Time45m
Serves4

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. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Clean the calamari by removing the head and innards, and rinsing them under cold water. Cut the bodies into rings and leave the tentacles whole if desired.

  2. 2

    Make the Batter

    In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder together. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings and tentacles into the egg mixture, then dredge them in the flour mixture until evenly coated.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

For the Marinara Sauce

  1. 6

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and add the oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

  3. 8

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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