Crispy Calamari Recipe
Lightly breaded and fried calamari served with a side of marinara.
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Ingredients
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Calamari
Marinara Sauce
Method
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
- 1
Sauté Garlic
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- 2
Combine Ingredients
Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- 3
Simmer Sauce
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4
Add Fresh Basil
Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Prepare the Calamari
- 5
Prepare Breading Stations
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with a mixture of cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and one with beaten egg mixed with milk.
- 6
Bread the Calamari
Dredge each calamari ring first in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- 7
Heat Oil
In a large frying pan, heat 2 cups of olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- 8
Fry Calamari
Carefully add breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- 9
Serve
Serve the crispy calamari hot with the marinara sauce on the side for dipping.