Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsCast Iron on 17thCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Cast Iron on 17th
Time45m
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Preparing the Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean and Prepare Calamari

    If using whole calamari, clean and cut them into rings. Rinse under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  3. 3

    Prepare Egg Wash

    In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring in the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure they are evenly coated.

Frying Calamari

  1. 5

    Heat Oil

    In a deep pot or fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

  2. 6

    Fry Calamari

    Fry the coated calamari rings in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pot.

  3. 7

    Drain Excess Oil

    Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Preparing the Marinara Sauce

  1. 8

    Sauté Garlic

    In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 9

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

  3. 10

    Simmer Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serving

  1. 11

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the crispy calamari hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

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