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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Breading
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Prepare the Wet Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined.
- 4
Coat the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring first in the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then in the dry mixture. Make sure they are well coated.
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Fry the coated calamari rings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain Excess Oil
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 8
Sauté the Garlic
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 9
Add Tomatoes & Seasonings
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, and add dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Finish with Basil
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in fresh basil leaves and remove from heat.