Calamari Fritti 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 Marinara Sauce
- 1
- 2
Sauté Garlic
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- 3
Add Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- 4
Season Sauce
Add oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- 5
Simmer Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- 6
Add Basil
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil. Set aside.
Preparing the Calamari
- 7
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- 8
- 9
Coat Calamari
Dip the calamari rings into the wet mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- 10
Dredge in Flour
Then dredge the calamari in the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- 11
Heat Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 12
Fry Calamari
Carefully add the calamari in batches to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- 13
Drain Calamari
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried calamari and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 14
Serve Calamari
Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.