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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Marinara Sauce
For Serving
Method
Preparing the Marinara Sauce
- 1
Sauté Garlic
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 2
Cook the Tomatoes
Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan. Stir in dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Finish the Sauce
Stir in fresh basil just before serving. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preparing the Calamari
- 4
Prep the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- 5
Make the Breading
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- 6
Prepare the Wet Mix
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
- 7
Dredge the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring first into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the breading mixture, coating evenly.
- 8
Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
- 9
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the breaded calamari to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serving
- 10
Plate the Dish
Serve the crispy fried calamari hot with marinara sauce on the side and lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.