Crispy Calamari Recipe
Lightly breaded calamari with a spicy marinara.
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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Spicy Marinara
Method
For the Calamari
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Begin by rinsing the calamari rings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Breading Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- 3
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a large, deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it's hot but not smoking.
- 5
Coat the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring first into the wet mixture, then dredge in the breading mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully place the coated calamari rings in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary, for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the calamari from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For the Spicy Marinara
- 8
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- 11
Finish with Fresh Basil
Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh basil for added flavor.