Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsSurf RestaurantCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by Surf Restaurant
Time1h
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce and lemon.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Garnish

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Coating

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

  3. 3

    Soak in Buttermilk

    Place the calamari in a separate bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Allow them to soak for about 30 minutes.

Frying

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep pot or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  2. 5

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the buttermilk and dredge them in the prepared flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

  3. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Fry the calamari in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.

  4. 7

    Drain Excess Oil

    Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 8

    Heat Olive Oil

    In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

  2. 9

    Sauté Garlic

    Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. 10

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 11

    Finish the Sauce

    Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil.

Serving

  1. 12

    Plate the Calamari

    Serve the crispy calamari hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and lemon wedges for garnish.

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