Clam Fritters
Clam Fritters Recipe - Mouth-Watering Appetizer from USA
Introduction
Clam fritters are a delicious and savory dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. These crispy fritters are made with chopped clams mixed with a flavorful batter and fried to perfection. They are perfect for seafood lovers and can be served with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping.
History
Clam fritters have been a popular dish in coastal regions for centuries. The recipe originated as a way to make use of fresh clams that were abundant in the area. Clams were often harvested by local fishermen and used in a variety of dishes, including fritters. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include different ingredients and seasonings, but the basic concept of frying chopped clams in a batter remains the same.
Ingredients
- 1 pt (473 ml) clams
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 and a half teaspoons salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 and three-quarters cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp chopped parsley
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tsp grated onion
How to prepare
- Drain the clams and chop them.
- Combine the dry ingredients.
- Combine the eggs, milk, onion, butter, and clams.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
- Drop the batter by teaspoonfuls into hot shortening at 350°F and fry for 3 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drain the fried clams on absorbent paper.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Mix in corn kernels or diced potatoes for added texture.
- Use different herbs and seasonings, such as Old Bay seasoning or garlic powder, for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to drain the clams well before chopping them to remove any excess liquid.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough fritters.
- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot filled with oil to fry the fritters evenly.
- Test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready for frying.
- Fry the fritters in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam fritters hot with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping. They can also be served with a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Fry the fritters in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use canned clams instead of fresh clams for convenience.
- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use gluten-free flour or cornmeal for a gluten-free version of the fritters.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry.
- Chop the clams and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the clam fritters on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges. - Arrange the fritters on a bed of lettuce or arugula for a colorful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the clam fritters with a side of coleslaw or a green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair them with a cold beer or a glass of white wine for a refreshing drink.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover clam fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of clam fritters contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of clam fritters contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of clam fritters contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of clam fritters contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Clam fritters are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Alergens
Clam fritters contain shellfish, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Clam fritters are a tasty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for seafood lovers.
Summary
Clam fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. With a crispy exterior and a tender interior, these fritters are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Serve them with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping, and enjoy the savory flavors of the sea in every bite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house for a cookout. As I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of freshly fried seafood filled the air. Martha was busy flipping golden brown clam fritters in a sizzling pan, and I couldn't help but be intrigued.
I asked Martha where she learned to make such delicious fritters, and she told me that her grandmother had passed down the recipe to her. She explained that the key to making perfect clam fritters was using fresh clams and a light, crispy batter. As I watched Martha cook, I knew that I had to learn how to make them myself.
I asked Martha if she would be willing to teach me her grandmother's recipe, and she happily obliged. We spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, measuring out ingredients and mixing up the batter. Martha showed me how to shuck the clams and chop them into small pieces, and then we gently folded them into the batter.
As we fried up the fritters, Martha shared stories of her grandmother and how she had learned to cook from her. She told me about the summers she spent with her grandmother by the sea, gathering clams and cooking them up in a variety of ways. It was clear that Martha's grandmother had passed down not just a recipe, but a love for cooking and a connection to the past.
By the time the fritters were done, I couldn't wait to taste them. Martha served them up with a side of homemade tartar sauce, and we sat down to enjoy our meal. The fritters were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the perfect balance of flavors. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I have made Martha's clam fritters countless times, each batch better than the last. I have experimented with different seasonings and variations, but I always come back to the original recipe that Martha shared with me. Whenever I make them, I think of Martha and her grandmother, and the bond that food can create between generations.
I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down just like Martha's grandmother did. Each time I make the fritters, I feel a connection to the past and to the traditions that have shaped my love for cooking. And every time I take a bite of a perfectly fried clam fritter, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I first saw the recipe and knew that it would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.