Get ready to shell-ebrate with our collection of 21 irresistible clam fritter recipes! These crispy, golden treats are a classic coastal delight that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic New England-style snack or a spicy twist from the Gulf Coast, we’ve got you covered. From classic buttermilk fried to Japanese-inspired karaage and everything in between, our recipes showcase the versatility of clams and the magic that happens when they meet breadcrumbs and batter.
Classic New England Clam Fritters
Classic New England Clam Fritters Recipe
These crispy and flavorful fritters are a staple of New England cuisine, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. Made with fresh clams, breadcrumbs, and spices, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound freshly shucked clams
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the clams, breadcrumbs, and egg to the bowl. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the clam mixture into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the size of the fritters.
Spicy Cajun Clam Fritters
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with these crispy and spicy Cajun clam fritters, perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and cocktail sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine clams, flour, cornmeal, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir in buttermilk until mixture forms a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the clam mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buttermilk Fried Clam Fritters
Enjoy the sweet taste of the ocean with these crispy buttermilk fried clam fritters, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add chopped clams and stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Dip clam mixture into buttermilk, then coat with the prepared batter.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat (375°F).
6. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Corn and Clam Fritters
Sweet Corn and Clam Fritters: A Coastal Twist on Classic Fried Delights
These crispy fritters combine the sweetness of fresh corn with the brininess of clams, making for a unique and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup chopped clams (such as cherrystone or quahog)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and chopped cilantro.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the sweet corn kernels and clams.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Gluten-Free Clam Fritters
Gluten-Free Clam Fritters: A Delicious Coastal Treat
These crispy fritters are packed with fresh clams and perfect for a seafood lover’s gathering or a quick snack. This recipe is gluten-free, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh clams (about 12-15)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, mix clam juice, egg, and chopped clams.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into hot oil (about 375°F).
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese-Style Karaage Clam Fritters
Experience the taste of Japan with these crispy and savory clam fritters, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of clams (drained and chopped)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, daikon radish, carrot, baking powder, salt, and white pepper.
2. Add the chopped clams to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs until a sticky dough forms.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the dough into the hot oil, flattening slightly to form fritters.
7. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Herbed Parmesan Clam Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the brininess of clams with the savory flavor of parmesan cheese and the freshness of herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh clam chowder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clam chowder, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop the mixture into hot oil (350°F) and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beer-Battered Clam Fritters
A twist on traditional clam fritters, this recipe adds a refreshing touch of beer to the batter for a crispy and flavorful snack. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the chopped clams and toss to coat evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together beer, remaining salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the clam mixture by rounded tablespoonfuls into hot oil (350°F) and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Bacon-Wrapped Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, savory, and indulgent bites that combine the freshness of clams with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen cherrystone or littleneck clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped clams, egg, and panko breadcrumbs to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
3. Wrap each clam mixture with a piece of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry clam fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai-Inspired Coconut Clam Fritters
Experience the fusion of Thai flavors with these crispy coconut clam fritters, perfect as an appetizer or snack. Sweet and savory, they’ll transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, shredded coconut, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped clams, curry paste, and beaten egg to the dry mixture; mix until well combined.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the clam mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these spicy and savory clam fritters infused with the bold flavor of sriracha. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, sriracha sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the clam mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Old Bay-Seasoned Clam Fritters
Experience the bold flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with these crispy and savory clam fritters, infused with the signature spices of Old Bay seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and Old Bay seasoning to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped clams.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the clam mixture into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Clam Fritters
Savor the flavors of the coast with these crispy, savory, and indulgently buttery clam fritters infused with garlic goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
2. Add the chopped clams, softened butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture into hot vegetable oil (375°F). Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve immediately while still warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zesty Lemon-Dill Clam Fritters
Zesty Lemon-Dill Clam Fritters: A refreshing twist on classic clam fritters, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of lemon with the brightness of dill and the brininess of clams.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter, lemon juice, dill, and egg; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped clams.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Panko Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, flavorful clam fritters coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chopped clams to the dry mixture and gently stir to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add panko breadcrumbs and stir until well combined.
4. Add clam mixture to breadcrumb mixture and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop fritter mixture into hot vegetable oil (350°F) in batches.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total
Smoky Chipotle Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these spicy and savory clam fritters infused with the deep flavors of smoky chipotle peppers. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these bite-sized treats will have you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, shucked and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the egg, lime juice, and chopped chipotle pepper to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
3. Fold in the chopped clams.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the clam mixture into the oil, forming fritters.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Cheese-Stuffed Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, cheesy fritters packed with fresh clam meat and savory flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup clam meat, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add clam meat, cheese, egg, and lemon juice to the dry mixture; mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 8-10 small balls.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels; serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Potato and Clam Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the brininess of clams, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup clams, rinsed and drained
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add clam juice, chopped parsley, and clams to the bowl; mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air-Fried Healthier Clam Fritters
These air-fried clam fritters are a healthier take on the traditional deep-fried version, with the same crispy exterior and tender interior. By using whole wheat flour and reducing the amount of oil, you can enjoy this seafood favorite without feeling guilty.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (6 oz) of clam juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Freshly squeezed lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, cheese (if using), paprika, and garlic powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together clam juice, olive oil, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Curry-Spiced Clam Fritters
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy and flavorful Curry-Spiced Clam Fritters. Perfect for a coastal-inspired appetizer or snack, these bite-sized treats combine the freshness of clams with the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and clams to the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the clam mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Crab and Clam Fritter Bites
Mini Crab and Clam Fritter Bites: A Bite-Sized Delight
Perfect for a party or gathering, these bite-sized fritters pack a punch of flavor with succulent crab and clams. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for an unforgettable experience!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh clam (such as quahog or cherrystone)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, clams, flour, paprika, Old Bay seasoning, egg, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the mixture into the hot oil in small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate seafood treat with these 21 crispy clam fritter recipes! From classic New England-style fritters to spicy Cajun and Japanese-inspired karaage, there’s something for every taste bud. Try buttermilk fried fritters, sweet corn and clam fritters, or go gluten-free with a special recipe. If you like it smoky, try the chipotle version, while cheese-lovers will adore the savory cheese-stuffed fritters. And for a healthier option, check out the air-fried version. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or simply crispy and delicious, these clam fritter recipes are sure to please!
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