Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMagpie CaféCrispy Fried Calamari Recipe

Crispy Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Magpie Café
Time45m
Serves4

Served with a side of marinara sauce

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Calamari

Marinara Sauce

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prep the Calamari

    In a large bowl, combine the cleaned calamari rings with the beaten egg and milk. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to marinate.

  2. 2

    Mix the Coating

    In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F).

  4. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each ring in the flour mixture, ensuring they're well-coated.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté the Garlic

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

  2. 7

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

  3. 8

    Simmer the Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the chopped fresh basil in the last few minutes of cooking.

More from Magpie Café