Clam Fritters
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory chopped clams. These New England-style clam fritters are the perfect seaside snack or appetizer, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Batter
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to combine.
- c.In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and the 1/4 cup of reserved clam juice until smooth.
- d.Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- e.Gently fold in the drained chopped clams, finely chopped onion, and fresh parsley.
- f.Let the batter rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flour to hydrate and the baking powder to activate, resulting in lighter fritters.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Heat the Oil
- b.Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 inch.
- c.Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F (185°C) on a cooking thermometer.
- d.If you don't have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it. The oil is ready if the batter sizzles immediately and turns golden in about 60 seconds.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Fritters
- b.Using two spoons or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to splash.
- c.Fry in batches of 4-5 fritters at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.
- d.Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are a deep golden brown and cooked through.
- e.Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil, allowing excess oil to drip off.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Drain and Serve
- b.Transfer the cooked fritters to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain. This keeps them crispy all around.
- c.Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter, ensuring the oil returns to temperature between batches.
- d.Serve immediately while hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (365°F / 185°C). If it's too cool, the fritters will be greasy; if it's too hot, they will burn on the outside before cooking through.
- 2Do not overcrowd the pan. Frying in small batches maintains the oil temperature and ensures each fritter gets perfectly crispy.
- 3For extra crispy fritters, drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows air to circulate underneath, preventing them from becoming soggy.
- 4Let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes before frying. This step is crucial for a light and airy texture.
- 5For a fluffier texture, you can separate the egg. Mix the yolk into the wet ingredients, then beat the egg white to stiff peaks and fold it into the final batter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Clam Fritters
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
Clam and Corn FrittersClam and Corn Fritters
Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels along with the clams for a touch of sweetness and texture.
Herbed Clam FrittersHerbed Clam Fritters
Substitute parsley with other fresh herbs like chopped chives, dill, or a combination for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Clams are packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Iron
Clams are one of the best dietary sources of iron, a mineral crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia. Adequate iron intake helps maintain energy levels and overall vitality.
High in Vitamin B12
This recipe provides a significant amount of Vitamin B12 from the clams. This vitamin is vital for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of 4 fritters contains approximately 170-190 calories. The exact number can vary based on the size of the fritters and the amount of oil absorbed during frying.