Description
Crispy, golden clam cakes bursting with tender chopped clams and fresh herbs. This classic New England appetizer is perfectly fried to a light, crunchy texture and best served warm with tartar sauce or lemon wedges, offering a delightful coastal seafood snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup chopped clams (with a little juice)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
For Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Make Batter: Add the milk and egg to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until a smooth batter forms without overmixing.
- Add Clams and Herbs: Fold in the chopped clams along with their juice and the chopped parsley, ensuring they are evenly incorporated into the batter.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pan or skillet, heat enough oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature suitable for frying—about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough so the fritters sizzle immediately upon contact.
- Fry Clam Cakes: Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of the batter carefully into the hot oil. Fry them in batches without overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Cook Until Golden: Fry each clam cake for about 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the clam cakes with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the clam cakes immediately while warm, accompanied by lemon wedges or your preferred dipping sauce such as tartar sauce.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to keep the oil temperature consistent and ensure even cooking.
- Serve clam cakes warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair with lemon wedges or tartar sauce for a classic seafood accompaniment.
- You can adjust the size of the clam cakes to your preference, but smaller spoonfuls fry more evenly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
