Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe High HatFried Calamari Recipe

Fried Calamari Recipe

Inspired by The High Hat
Time1h
Serves4

Served with marinara sauce.

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Calamari

    In a bowl, combine the calamari rings with the milk and let it marinate for about 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Egg Wash

    In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Set aside.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

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

  5. 5

    Coat the Calamari

    Remove the calamari from the milk and shake off excess liquid. Dip each ring into the egg wash, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.

  6. 6

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully place the coated calamari rings into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

  7. 7

    Drain the Calamari

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 8

    Sauté Garlic

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

  2. 9

    Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

  3. 10

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 11

    Serve the Sauce

    Once the sauce is thickened and flavors have melded, remove from heat and serve alongside the fried calamari.

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