Spicy African-style Calamari

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Calamari alla marchigiana to African cuisine, we incorporate the bold and aromatic flavors commonly found in African dishes. The original Italian recipe is transformed by using a combination of African spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, and ginger, which infuse the calamari with a delightful heat. Additionally, the dish is served with a tangy tomato chutney, a popular condiment in African cuisine, to add a burst of freshness and acidity. We alse have the original recipe for Calamari alla marchigiana, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings 500g (1.1 lb) calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander, for garnish Fresh coriander, for garnish
• Tomato chutney, for serving Tomato chutney, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the calamari rings to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the spice mixture. Allow the calamari to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated calamari and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and tender.
4. 4.
   Remove the calamari from the skillet and garnish with fresh coriander.
5. 5.
   Serve the Spicy African-style Calamari with tomato chutney on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Calamari — Make sure to clean the calamari thoroughly before slicing it into rings. Remove any innards and rinse the calamari under cold water to remove any sand or debris.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
• Serve the Spicy African-style Calamari with a side of fluffy couscous or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze some additional lemon juice over the cooked calamari before serving.
• If you don't have access to fresh calamari, you can use frozen calamari rings. Thaw them according to the package instructions before marinating and cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Spicy African-style Calamari as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad. Garnish with additional fresh coriander for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cooked calamari rings on a platter and garnish with sprigs of fresh coriander. Serve the tomato chutney in a small bowl on the side for dipping or drizzling over the calamari.