Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe HelmandFritto Misto Recipe

Fritto Misto Recipe

Inspired by The Helmand
Time45m
Serves4

Flash-fried calamari and shrimp delivered with red sauce.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Seafood

For Frying

Method

Prepare the Seafood

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, combine the cleaned calamari and shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Make the Batter

  1. 2

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

  2. 3

    Gradually add cold water to the flour mixture while whisking until you achieve a smooth batter consistency.

Prepare the Red Sauce

  1. 4

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

  2. 5

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. 6

    Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Set aside.

Fry the Seafood

  1. 7

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).

  2. 8

    Dip the calamari and shrimp into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and carefully place them into the hot oil.

  3. 9

    Fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.

  4. 10

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried seafood and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve

  1. 11

    Serve the fritto misto hot with the red sauce on the side for dipping.

More from The Helmand