Name: Crispy Fried Clam Strips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh clam strips; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of Crispy Fried Clam Strips. Imagine sinking your teeth into those golden-brown strips, where the crunchy exterior gives way to tender, flavorful clam meat. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your mouth water in anticipation.

I can still remember the first time I made these Crispy Fried Clam Strips—it was a rainy Sunday afternoon when my cravings for seafood hit an all-time high. My kitchen turned into a makeshift seafood shack, complete with laughter, splashes of batter, and delectable scents that had everyone wandering in to investigate. It became a feast fit for family gatherings or cozy nights in front of the TV while binge-watching our favorite shows.

Why You'll Love This Crispy Fried Clam Strips

This incredible Crispy Fried Clam Strips transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crispy Fried Clam Strips:

Fresh Clam Strips: Look for high-quality clam strips at your local seafood market; they should be firm and slightly shiny.
All-Purpose Flour: This will create the perfect base for your batter; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture helps achieve that extra crunchiness we all love.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick to the clam strips.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness; they give a delightful texture to each bite.

For the Seasoning:

Old Bay Seasoning: A classic choice that adds depth and flavor; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; always season to taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crispy Fried Clam Strips:

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with seasoned flour (flour mixed with Old Bay seasoning), one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line will make breading a breeze!

Step 2: Coat the Clam Strips

Take each clam strip and dip it first into the seasoned flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it generously with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re well-coated—no clam left behind!

Step 3: Heat Up That Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that when you drop in a breadcrumb it sizzles immediately.

Step 4: Fry Away

Carefully place several breaded clam strips into the hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry them until they’re golden brown on each side—about 2-3 minutes per side should do it! Drain them on paper towels afterward.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Transfer your crispy fried clam strips onto plates and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce—tartar sauce anyone?

Step 6: Enjoy!

Gather around the table, share stories, laughter, and enjoy these delightful crispy fried clam strips that are sure to impress everyone!

So there you have it! With this simple yet scrumptiously satisfying recipe for Crispy Fried Clam Strips, you’ll undoubtedly elevate any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Happy cooking!

You Must Know About Crispy Fried Clam Strips

This showstopping Crispy Fried Clam Strips delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preparing the clam strips, coating them in seasoned flour, and letting them rest. Heat oil to the right temperature before frying in small batches for optimal crispiness and flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to experiment with your seasoning! Swap out traditional spices for zesty lemon pepper or a dash of Old Bay seasoning. You can also add breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crispy fried clam strips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Crispy Fried Clam Strips

This professional-quality Crispy Fried Clam Strips relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these crispy fried clam strips during family gatherings, and they vanish faster than I can say “clam-tastic!” My aunt once declared them better than her favorite seafood restaurant—now that’s high praise!

FAQs

What is Crispy Fried Clam Strips?

Crispy Fried Clam Strips are a delicious seafood dish made from tender strips of clam meat, coated in a light batter and deep-fried until golden brown. This popular appetizer or main course is known for its crunchy exterior and succulent interior, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Often enjoyed with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce, these clam strips can be found on menus at many restaurants or made easily at home. They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts.

How do you make Crispy Fried Clam Strips?

To make Crispy Fried Clam Strips, start by cleaning fresh clams and slicing them into strips. Prepare a simple batter using flour, cornmeal, salt, and spices for added flavor. Dip each clam strip into the batter and ensure they are well-coated. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to the right temperature before carefully adding the battered strips. Fry until they reach a golden-brown color, then remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat.

Are Crispy Fried Clam Strips healthy?

While Crispy Fried Clam Strips are undeniably tasty, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their frying process. Clams themselves are nutritious, providing protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. However, the frying adds extra calories and fat. To make them healthier, consider baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying. This way, you can still enjoy the savory flavors while reducing unhealthy fats without sacrificing taste.

What can I serve with Crispy Fried Clam Strips?

Crispy Fried Clam Strips pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their flavor profile. Consider serving them with coleslaw for crunch or French fries for a classic touch. You can also add dipping sauces like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or even spicy aioli for an extra kick. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the fried clams.

Conclusion

In summary, Crispy Fried Clam Strips are a delightful seafood dish that brings together flavor and crunch in every bite. With simple preparation methods available, you can enjoy this treat at home or order it at your favorite restaurant. Whether served as an appetizer or main course alongside delicious sides and dipping sauces, they are sure to please any palate. Indulge in this culinary delight for your next meal!