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
For the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help ensure the batter adheres properly.
- 2
Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk.
- 3
Coat the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring into the egg and buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off excess flour.
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a large, deep pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
For the Spicy Marinara Sauce
- 6
Sauté the Garlic
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 7
Make the Sauce
Add the canned crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- 8
Finish the Sauce
Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving, allowing them to wilt slightly.
