Introduction :
Indulge in the irresistible taste of crispy fried clams with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for seafood lovers, these golden-brown bites make a delicious appetizer or snack option. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of the sea, this recipe will satisfy your seafood cravings in no time. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to fry up a batch of these flavorful treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh clams, shucked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for dipping (optional)
Directions:
- Rinse the shucked clams under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Dredge the clams in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Carefully add the clams to the hot oil, in batches if necessary, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the fried clams with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve the fried clams hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired.
Expert Tips for Serving and Storage:
- Serve the fried clams immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Leftover fried clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional and Health Benefits:
- Clams are a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- When fried in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Variations to Explore:
- Try using different seasonings in the flour mixture, such as garlic powder, paprika, or Old Bay seasoning, for added flavor.
- Serve the fried clams with different dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce or aioli, for variety.
Conclusion:
Enjoy these crispy and flavorful fried clams as a tasty appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for seafood lovers and easy to make at home.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen clams, but make sure to thaw them completely before frying.
- How do I know when the clams are cooked through?
- The clams are cooked when they turn golden brown and float to the surface while frying.
- Can I substitute the cornmeal with flour?
- Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for cornmeal if desired.
- What dipping sauces pair well with fried clams?
- Popular options include tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a simple lemon-garlic aioli.
- How should I store leftover fried clams?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy finish.
Resources :
- Allrecipes: Fried Clams
- Food Network: How to Make Fried Clams
- Serious Eats: The Best Fried Clams
- BBC Good Food: Crispy Fried Clams Recipe
- Epicurious: Fried Clams
More you’ll love:
PrintFried Clams Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh clams, shucked
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the shucked clams under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Dredge the clams in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Carefully add the clams to the hot oil, in batches if necessary, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the fried clams with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve the fried clams hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to shuck the clams properly and remove any bits of shell before frying.
- Use fresh clams for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Fried Clams Recipe