Description
Crispy, golden fritters packed with chopped clams and herbs, these clam cakes are a beloved coastal New England snack. Perfectly seasoned and fried to a delightful crunch, they are often served warm with tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an irresistible appetizer or 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
Other
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the milk and egg to the dry mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth batter without overmixing, which can toughen the texture.
- Incorporate Clams and Herbs: Fold the chopped clams along with their juice and the chopped parsley into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking down the clams too much.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a deep pan or skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches the ideal temperature for frying, roughly 350°F (175°C), to ensure the cakes fry evenly without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry Clam Cakes: Drop spoonfuls of the batter carefully into the hot oil ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, frying each side for about 2–3 minutes or until the cakes turn golden brown and crisp.
- Drain: Using a slotted spoon, remove the clam cakes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil for a crisp finish.
- Serve Warm: Present the clam cakes warm, served with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce such as tartar sauce for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Serve with lemon wedges or dipping sauce such as tartar sauce for an authentic New England experience.
- Maintain medium-high heat to avoid greasy clam cakes and achieve a crisp texture.
- Use fresh clams or high-quality canned clams for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
