Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsEngine House CafeFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Engine House Cafe
Time45m
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Marinara Sauce

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water, remove the heads and innards, and slice the bodies into rings.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Create the Wet Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until well combined.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Bread the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the breaded calamari rings into the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 7

    Sauté the Garlic

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

  2. 8

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix well.

  3. 9

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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