Fried Calamari Recipe
Served with marinara sauce and lemon.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Garnish
Method
Prepare the Calamari
- 1
Clean the Calamari
Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water. Remove the head and innards, and slice the body into rings.
- 2
Marinate the Calamari
In a bowl, combine calamari rings with buttermilk. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Batter
- 3
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- 4
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
- 5
- 6
Simmer Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- 7
Finish Sauce
Stir in fresh basil and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Fry the Calamari
- 8
Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- 9
Batter the Calamari
Dip marinated calamari rings into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mixture.
- 10
Fry the Calamari
Carefully place the battered calamari into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- 11
Drain and Serve
Remove fried calamari with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce and lemon wedges.