Best Easy Clam Cake Recipe Maine
If you’re a seafood lover and have a soft spot for traditional New England cuisine, then clam cakes are a must-try dish! These delectable fritters, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are a popular staple in Maine. Packed with fresh clams and seasoned to perfection, clam cakes make for a delicious appetizer or even a light meal. Here’s a simple yet mouthwatering clam cake recipe that will transport you straight to the coast of Maine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, shucked and minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
2. Add the minced clams, parsley, and scallions to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten egg. Pour the mixture into the clam mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
5. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the clam batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the clam cakes for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally.
6. Remove the cooked clam cakes from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the clam cakes hot with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!
Now, let’s move on to some commonly asked questions about this delicious Maine specialty:
1. Can I use canned clams instead of fresh clams?
Yes, you can substitute fresh clams with canned clams in this recipe. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
2. What type of clams should I use?
Look for soft-shell clams, also known as steamer clams or longneck clams, as they are commonly used in clam cake recipes due to their tender and flavorful meat.
3. Can I make the batter in advance?
While it’s best to fry the clam cakes immediately after preparing the batter, you can refrigerate the batter for up to a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to give it a good stir before frying.
4. Can I freeze leftover clam cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked clam cakes for up to 3 months. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
5. Are clam cakes gluten-free?
This particular recipe includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. If you require a gluten-free option, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend instead.
6. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Vegetable oil works well for frying clam cakes due to its high smoke point. However, you can use other oils like canola or peanut oil if preferred.
7. Can I add additional seasonings to the batter?
Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings to suit your taste. Some popular additions include garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and prepare these irresistible clam cakes. Enjoy the flavors of Maine right in your own kitchen!