Calamari Fritti Recipe
Crispy fried calamari served with marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Calamari Preparation
- 1
Prepare the Calamari
Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Breading Mixture
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Prepare the Wet Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
- 4
Dredge the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the dry breading mixture until fully coated.
Frying
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully drop the breaded calamari into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 7
Drain the Calamari
Using a slotted spoon, remove the calamari from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with additional salt if desired.
Marinara Sauce Preparation
- 8
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 10
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Serving
- 11
Plate the Calamari
Serve the crispy fried calamari hot, accompanied by the marinara sauce for dipping.