Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsGaslight District DinerFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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For the Calamari

For the Marinara Sauce

Method

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

  1. 1

    Sauté Garlic

    In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 2

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

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

  3. 3

    Simmer Sauce

    Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Calamari

  1. 4

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.

  2. 5

    Prepare Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup of milk until smooth.

  3. 6

    Coat Calamari

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

  4. 7

    Heat Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or a pot, heat 2 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 8

    Fry Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  6. 9

    Drain and Serve

    Remove the fried calamari using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with the marinara sauce on the side.

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