Crispy Calamari recipe served on a plate, by Midpoint Istanbul Fine Dining
Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Midpoint Istanbul Fine Dining›Crispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Midpoint Istanbul Fine Dining
Time45m
Serves4

Served with a spicy marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Spicy Marinara Sauce

Method

Preparing the Calamari

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help them to crisp up during frying.

  2. 2

    Make the Breading Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip each calamari ring into buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Frying the Calamari

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the breading mixture into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

  2. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the calamari and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Making the Spicy Marinara Sauce

  1. 6

    Heat the Olive Oil

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

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

  3. 8

    Finish the Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the crispy calamari hot with the spicy marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

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