Fried Clams with Tartar and Cocktail Sauces
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Servings: 4 to 6
- Nutritional Details per Serving (based on 6 servings): Calories 1020, Total Fat 77 g, Saturated Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 66 g, Dietary Fiber 4 g, Sugar 13 g, Protein 20 g, Cholesterol 73 mg, Sodium 1133 mg
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 min (includes chilling)
- Active Time: 25 min
Ingredients for Fried Clams:
- 2 cups corn flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon seafood seasoning, such as Old Bay
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- Canola oil, for frying
- 1 pound shucked frozen long-neck or soft-shell clam bellies, thawed, or fresh clams
- 1 cup Tartar Sauce (recipe below)
- 1 cup Cocktail Sauce (recipe below)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Tartar Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dill relish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chile paste, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, add more if preferred
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Special Equipment:
A deep-frying thermometer
Instructions:
- Whisk together corn flour, all-purpose flour, seafood seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. In another bowl, beat milk and egg together, then season lightly with salt and pepper. These simple components are the secret to achieving that irresistibly crispy, golden exterior.
- Heat canola oil to a precise 365F (185C) in a heavy-bottomed pot filled 4 inches deepthis temperature is crucial for creating perfectly fried clams. Line a sheet tray with paper towels and keep it nearby.
- Working in batches of 8 to 10 clams, dip each piece into the milk mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the flour blend. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 45 seconds to 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to your prepared tray, keeping each batch warm while you fry the rest.
- Finish your fried clams with a final sprinkle of salt and pepper, then arrange them on a serving platter surrounded by lemon wedges and both sauces for an impressive presentation.
Tartar Sauce Preparation:
Create the perfect creamy complement by combining mayonnaise, dill relish, fresh dill, lemon juice, kosher salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Chill for at least 1 houror up to 2 days aheadallowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cocktail Sauce Preparation:
Blend ketchup, Calabrian chile paste, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and pepper for a tangy, spicy sauce that pairs perfectly with crispy fried clams. Refrigerate until serving, or prepare up to 1 week in advance.
