CALAMARI STUFFED WITH MEAT IN TOMATO SAUCE

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Calamari:
• 1 lb calamari tubes (cleaned)
• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for frying
For the Tomato Sauce:
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

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1. Prepare the Stuffing:
o In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

2. Stuff the Calamari:
o Using a small spoon, carefully fill each calamari tube with the meat mixture, leaving a little space at the end to allow for expansion during cooking. Secure the ends with toothpicks.

3. Cook the Tomato Sauce:
o In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
o Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
o Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

4. Cook the Stuffed Calamari:
o In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the stuffed calamari and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
o Once browned, transfer the calamari to the tomato sauce, covering them gently with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the calamari are tender and the filling is cooked through.

5. Serve:
o Remove the toothpicks from the calamari. Serve the stuffed calamari on a plate, drizzled with tomato sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Enjoy your Calamari Stuffed with Meat in Tomato Sauce—a flavorful and satisfying dish!