Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Little Village - DowntownCrisp Fried Calamari Recipe

Crisp Fried Calamari Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Spicy marinara

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Ingredients

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Calamari

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean the Calamari

    Rinse the fresh calamari under cold water. Remove the tentacles and cut the bodies into rings. Pat dry with a paper towel.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    Dunk the calamari rings first into the egg mixture, then dredge them in the flour mixture until fully coated.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large pot or deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

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

Spicy Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

  2. 7

    Add the Spices

    Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

  3. 8

    Prepare the Sauce

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

  4. 9

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chopped fresh basil just before serving.

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