Fried Calamari Recipe
Crispy calamari served with marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Prepare the Calamari
- 1
Clean the Calamari
Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water. Remove the skin, if necessary, and slice the calamari into rings about 1/2 inch thick.
- 2
Prepare the Breading
In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- 3
Set up the Dipping Station
In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the buttermilk, mixing until well combined. Place the seasoned flour mixture in a separate shallow dish.
Cook the Calamari
- 4
Heat the Oil
In a deep saucepan or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 5
Bread the Calamari
Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk-egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Then coat it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully place the breaded calamari rings in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain the Calamari
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
- 8
Cook the Garlic
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, fresh basil, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce heat to low and let the marinara sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
- 11
Plate the Calamari
Transfer the fried calamari to a serving platter and serve immediately with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
