Calamari Recipe
Fried calamari served with a spicy marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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Fried Calamari
Spicy Marinara Sauce
Method
Prepare the Fried Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Breading Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- 3
Coat the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Then dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 6
Drain and Keep Warm
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep warm while frying the remaining batches.
Prepare the Spicy Marinara Sauce
- 7
- 8
Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, followed by the red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Finish the Sauce
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Serve the Dish
- 12
Plate the Calamari
Transfer the fried calamari to a serving platter.
- 13
Serve with Marinara
Serve the fried calamari hot with the spicy marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
