Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLeñaCalamari Recipe

Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Leña
Time40m
Serves4

Lightly breaded and fried calamari served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Marinara Sauce

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Set Up Breading Station

    In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.

  3. 3

    Bread the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring first into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Shake off any excess.

  4. 4

    Heat Oil

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

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  6. 6

    Drain

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 7

    Heat Olive Oil

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until shimmering.

  2. 8

    Sauté Garlic

    Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  3. 9

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix well.

  4. 10

    Simmer Sauce

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

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