Calamari Recipe
Fried calamari served with marinara sauce.
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Ingredients
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For the Calamari
For the Marinara Sauce
Method
Preparing the Calamari
- 1
Clean the Calamari
Begin by cleaning the fresh calamari. Remove the head and innards, and peel away the skin. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
- 2
Cut into Rings
Slice the cleaned calamari bodies into 1/2 inch rings. Set aside.
- 3
Prepare the Breading
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- 4
Coat the Calamari
Dip the calamari rings into buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
- 5
Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- 6
Fry the Calamari
Carefully add the breaded calamari 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
- 7
- 8
Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 9
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 10
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 11
Finish with Basil
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and remove from heat.