New Jersey-style Spicy Calamari

Ingredients

In this New Jersey adaptation, the traditional French Calamars à la basquaise is given a spicy twist to cater to the bold flavors preferred in the cuisine of New Jersey. The original dish is typically milder in taste, while the New Jersey-style version incorporates a fiery kick to satisfy the local palate. Additionally, the use of specific ingredients and spices commonly found in New Jersey cuisine adds a unique twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Calamars à la basquaise, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings 1 lb (450g) fresh calamari, cleaned and sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften.
5. 5.
   Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper, and cook for another minute.
6. 6.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Add the sliced calamari to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the calamari is tender and opaque.
9. 9.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
10. 10.
    Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Calamari — Make sure to clean the calamari thoroughly and remove any innards before slicing it into rings. This will ensure a tender and delicious final result.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Serve the calamari with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrusy flavor.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
• Make sure not to overcook the calamari, as it can become tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns opaque and tender.

Serving advice

Serve the New Jersey-style Spicy Calamari as an appetizer or as a main course. Accompany it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, or serve it over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant, coastal-themed dishware to enhance the seaside experience.