CRISPY FRIED CALAMARI With Marinara Sauce | Golden & Crunchy Chef's Pro Tips!

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour adds fiber while cornmeal is often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while vegetable oil is more budget-friendly.

marinara sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade tomato sauce

💰Cheaper: ketchup

Homemade sauce can be healthier and ketchup is a cheaper alternative.

breadcrumbs

🥗Healthier: panko breadcrumbs

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Panko provides a lighter texture, while crushed crackers can be a more economical choice.

Prepare the squid by cutting it into rings and tentacles.

In a bowl, mix fresh milk, egg, vinegar, and a pinch of salt.

In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, corn flour, rice flour, baking powder, salt, MSG (if using), pepper powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes.

Dip the squid rings into the milk mixture, then coat them in the flour mixture.

Heat oil in a deep pan to around 180°C / 350°F.

Fry the calamari in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden and crispy.

Remove the calamari and drain on a wire rack to keep them crispy.

For the marinara sauce, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped garlic and onion until soft.

Add chopped tomatoes, salt, chili flakes, oregano, and sugar to taste, and simmer until thickened.

Stir in chopped basil leaves before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens