Clam Fritters I

Clam Fritters I Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make Appetizer from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Clam fritters are a delicious and savory dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. These crispy fritters are made with minced clams, flour, and seasonings, then fried to perfection. They are perfect for seafood lovers looking for a tasty and easy-to-make recipe.

History

Clam fritters have been a popular dish in coastal regions for centuries. The recipe likely originated as a way to make use of fresh clams that were abundant in the area. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and seasonings, making it a versatile and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1.5 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp onion powder
2 eggs, separated
0.25 cup milk
2 x 6.5 oz (184 g) cans minced clams (drain; reserve liquid)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cups cooked rice
0.25 cup minced green pepper
vegetable oil
Devil's Sauce

How to prepare

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Beat egg yolks, milk, 0.5 cup of clam liquid, and vegetable oil together until blended.
Add the sifted ingredients to the mixture and beat until smooth.
Stir in rice and green pepper.
Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter.
Pour oil to a depth of about 4 inches into a deep saucepan and heat to 350°F (177°C) on a deep-fat thermometer.
Spoon the batter by heaping tablespoons into the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes, allowing approximately 2.5 minutes on each side.
Drain the fritters on absorbent paper.
Serve with Devil's Sauce.

Variations

Add diced onions or garlic for extra flavor.
Substitute cornmeal for some of the flour for a different texture.
Add chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh herb flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the canned clams well before using them in the recipe to prevent the fritters from becoming too watery.

- Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and fluffy texture in the fritters.

- Use a deep saucepan with enough oil to fully submerge the fritters for even frying.

- Serve the fritters hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Clam fritters can be served as an appetizer with a side of tartar sauce or as a main course with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fry the fritters in hot oil to ensure a crispy exterior.

- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh clams instead of canned clams for a more authentic flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the clam fritters on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve clam fritters with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing pairing.

- Pair with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover clam fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in a 350°F (177°C) oven 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 selenium.

Alergens

Clam fritters contain shellfish, eggs, and wheat.

Summary

Clam fritters are a tasty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

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 meal. Serve them as an appetizer or a main course for a tasty and satisfying dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a trip to the coastal town of New England. I had always been drawn to the sea, and the sights and sounds of the bustling fishing village filled me with a sense of joy and wonder.

One day, as I wandered through the town's local market, I stumbled upon a small, quaint shop that was selling fresh seafood. The aromas of the ocean filled the air, and I couldn't resist stepping inside to see what treasures I might find.

As I perused the various offerings, a kindly old woman approached me and struck up a conversation. She introduced herself as Mrs. Whitaker, a local fisherman's wife who had lived in the town her entire life. We chatted for a while, and I soon found myself captivated by her stories of the sea and the delicious recipes she had learned from generations of fishermen and their families.

Mrs. Whitaker must have sensed my interest, for she invited me to her home that afternoon to watch her prepare a special dish known as Clam Fritters. She explained that this recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and she was eager to share it with me.

I eagerly accepted her invitation and followed her to a charming little cottage just a short walk from the market. The kitchen was cozy and filled with the tantalizing scents of herbs and spices. Mrs. Whitaker wasted no time in putting me to work, handing me a bowl and a whisk and instructing me to mix together the ingredients for the fritters.

As we worked side by side, she shared with me the story of how she had first learned to make Clam Fritters. It had been many years ago, when she was just a young girl, and her mother had taken her out on the family boat to harvest clams from the ocean floor. They had spent the day gathering the shellfish, then returned home to prepare a delicious meal to share with their family and friends.

Mrs. Whitaker's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recounted the memory, and I could sense the love and pride she felt for her family's culinary traditions. She showed me how to clean and chop the clams, how to mix the batter just right, and how to fry the fritters to a perfect golden brown.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Clam Fritters and was instantly transported back to that day on the boat with Mrs. Whitaker and her mother. The flavors were bold and savory, with just a hint of sweetness from the fresh clams. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

After my visit with Mrs. Whitaker, I returned home with a heart full of gratitude and a notebook full of her cherished recipes. Over the years, I have made the Clam Fritters many times for my family and friends, each time with a sense of reverence for the tradition and history that Mrs. Whitaker shared with me.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in New England, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such a wise and generous soul. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other. And so, whenever I make Clam Fritters, I do so with a smile on my face, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that spans generations and brings joy to all who taste its delicious flavors.