You might be forgiven if you think calamari is a California "thing." After all, it is a little bit on the exotic side. But celebrated Food Network Chef Guy Fieri wants to change that perception. He came by Tonia's Kitchen to talk about how he does calamari, Rhode Island style! Guy told Tonia his version isn't as deeply fried as you might find elsewhere. It also includes pepperoncini, white wine garlic and clam juice. No need for heavy dipping sauces with flavor this incredible.
4 cups canola oil
4 ounces olive oil
1 cup sliced pepperoncini
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup minced garlic
1/2 cup white wine
1/4 cup clam juice
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 round loaf sourdough bread
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon seasoning salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
12 ounces calamari, tubes and tentacles, cut in 1/4-inch thick
3 ounces diced Roma tomatoes
3 ounces chopped scallions
- Heat canola oil in a deep pot to 350 degrees F.
- In a skillet over high heat, combine olive oil, butter, pepperoncini and onion. Saute until lightly caramelized, then add garlic and cook until tender. Deglaze with white wine and cook until slightly reduced. Add the clam juice, red pepper, and lower heat to a simmer.
- Core out bread and lightly toast the bread bowl. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, seasoning salt and cayenne. Toss calamari in flour and shake off excess.
- Fry calamari in oil until golden brown and crispy. Toss fried calamari with the sauce and pour into the toasted bread bowl. Garnish with Roma tomatoes and scallions.
