Fried Calamari Recipe
Served with marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Thaw the calamari rings if they are frozen. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- 2
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
- 3
- 4
Dredge the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings first into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat them in the dry mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 7
Sauté the Garlic
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 8
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 9
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- 10
Finish with Basil
Stir in the fresh basil just before serving to enhance the flavor.