Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsHersh’sCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Hersh’s
Time45m
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Preparing the Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  2. 2

    Create the Breading Mixture

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

  3. 3

    Soak the Calamari

    Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl. Dip the calamari rings into the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully coated.

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Transfer the buttermilk-coated calamari to the flour mixture. Toss to coat evenly and shake off any excess flour.

Frying the Calamari

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain the Calamari

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Making the Marinara Sauce

  1. 8

    Sauté the Garlic

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

  2. 9

    Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.

  3. 10

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 11

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

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