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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Marinara Sauce
Method
For the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure they fry up crispy.
- 2
Make the Breading
In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- 3
Soak in Buttermilk
Place the cleaned calamari rings in another bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 10 minutes.
- 4
Bread the Calamari
After soaking, remove the calamari rings from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and toss them in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- 5
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Fry the breaded calamari in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
For the Marinara Sauce
- 7
- 8
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, then add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 9
Simmer the Sauce
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- 10
Finish with Basil
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
