Rhode Island Style Calamari

Adapted from https://seasaltsavorings.com/rhode-island-style-calamari/

Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS

1 lb calamari
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup corn meal
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
5 tbsp salted butter
1 cup sliced banana/pepperoncini/cherry pepper rings
2 garlic cloves finely chopped
frying oil

Optional ingredients:

lemon wedges
marinara sauce

STEPS

1) Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy bottom pan over medium heat until the oil reaches 375 degrees.

2) Whisk the eggs in a bowl and set to the side. Whisk together the flour, cornmeal, cornstarch, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Dunk the calamari in the egg and shake off the excess. Dunk the calamari in the flour mixture, then shake off the excess. Place the calamari on a plate as you work through it.

3) Place a handful of calamari rings in the frying oil at a time. Allow the calamari to cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until it's lightly browned. Remove the calamari with a slotted spoon, then plate on a paper towel lined plate.

4) In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sautè the garlic and pepper rings until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Once all the calamari is fried, toss the calamari in the pan with the butter mixture and coat evenly.

5) Serve the calamari with marinara sauce, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Mangia!