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Ingredients
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Fried Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Fried Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- 3
- 4
Coat the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings first into the wet mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then into the dry mixture to coat evenly.
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Working in batches, carefully add the coated calamari to the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.
Marinara Sauce
- 8
Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 9
Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Add Fresh Basil
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- 12
Serve
Remove the sauce from heat and serve it warm alongside the fried calamari.