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Crispy Fried Calamari with Marinara Sauce
Indulge in the tantalizing crunch of Crispy Fried Calamari, a classic dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Each ring is perfectly battered and fried to golden perfection, offering a delightful contrast of textures—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. Pair it with a zesty homemade marinara sauce that enhances the dish's savory notes. This beloved appetizer has roots in Italian cuisine, where it is often enjoyed as a popular street food, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- Calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 pound
- Cornmeal
- 1/2 cup
- All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika
- 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon
- Egg
- 1, beaten
- Milk
- 1/4 cup
- Vegetable oil
- for frying
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces)
- Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Garlic, minced
- 2 cloves
- Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped
- for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinara sauce by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Set aside.
- In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the beaten egg and milk.
- Dip the calamari rings into the egg mixture, then coat them in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the calamari rings in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Remove the fried calamari with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the crispy fried calamari hot, garnished with fresh basil and accompanied by the marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying for the best crispiness.
- You can substitute squid with shrimp for a different seafood experience.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Appetizer Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Calories: 400 Fat: 20g Carbs: 35g Protein: 15g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 5g
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