Description
Crispy, golden clam cakes are a classic New England coastal favorite. These savory fritters are packed with tender chopped clams and fresh parsley, fried to a perfect golden brown. Often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, clam cakes are delicious served warm with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
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 the dry ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring they are well mixed to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Make the batter. Add the milk and egg to the dry mixture, stirring gently until a smooth batter forms without any large lumps.
- Add clams and herbs. Fold in the chopped clams, including a bit of their juice for flavor and moisture, along with the chopped parsley, mixing to evenly incorporate them into the batter.
- Heat the oil. Pour oil into a deep pan or skillet to a depth suitable for frying and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), suitable for deep frying.
- Fry the cakes. Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil temperature and prevent sticking.
- Cook until golden. Fry each clam cake for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning as necessary, until they are puffed and a deep golden brown color.
- Drain and serve. Remove the clam cakes with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, accompanied by lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce such as tartar sauce.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Serve clam cakes hot and fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Optional: add a pinch of black pepper or Old Bay seasoning to the batter for extra flavor.
- Use fresh or canned chopped clams with juice for the best seafood taste.
- Leftover clam cakes can be reheated briefly in a hot oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
