Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›The Monroe›Crispy Calamari Recipe

Crispy Calamari Recipe

Inspired by The Monroe
Time45m
Serves4

Served with spicy marinara.

Jump to Recipe

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.

Calamari

Spicy Marinara

Method

Calamari Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dry Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Wet Mixture

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until fully combined.

  3. 3

    Coat the Calamari

    Dip the calamari rings first into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat them in the dry mixture. Shake off any excess flour and place them on a plate.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture in; it should sizzle immediately.

  5. 5

    Fry the Calamari

    Carefully add the coated calamari rings to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Spicy Marinara Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté Garlic

    In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 7

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, and add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

  3. 8

    Simmer the Sauce

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

  4. 9

    Finish with Basil

    Stir in the chopped fresh basil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

More from The Monroe