Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCharley G'sFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Charley G's
Time30m
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Batter

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.

  3. 3

    Batter the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until evenly coated.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

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

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches, about 2-3 minutes per batch, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Cook the Sauce

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

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

  3. 8

    Simmer the Sauce

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

  4. 9

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

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