Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsTaino's Kitchen DowntownCrispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Fried calamari served with a side of marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Preparing the Calamari

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Rinse the calamari under cold water. Remove the head, tentacles, and innards. Slice the body into rings.

  2. 2

    Marinate the Calamari

    In a bowl, mix the calamari rings with buttermilk. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Breading the Calamari

  1. 3

    Prepare the Breading Station

    In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs.

  2. 4

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the buttermilk. Dip each ring first in the egg, then in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Frying the Calamari

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Making the Marinara Sauce

  1. 7

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. 8

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Add chopped basil just before serving.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the crispy calamari hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

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