The Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia is known for its delicious seafood. One of its most beloved dishes is the Eastern Shore Clam Fritters. These tasty fritters start with freshly shucked clams, finely chopped, and mixed with a savory batter. They are then deep-fried to a golden brown, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender and juicy interior. The combination of the salty clams and the flavorful batter creates a unique taste sure to tantalize your taste buds. These clam fritters are the perfect appetizer or side dish to complement a variety of seafood meals. Serve with a side of tartar sauce or cocktail sauce.
Eastern Shore Clam Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup fresh clams, ground
- 1 onion, small, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- vegetable oil for frying
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine eggs, ground clams, onion, flour, salt, pepper, and sugar. Blend well. Fold in baking powder
- In a large skillet, heat oil to 300°. Spoon batter into hot oil. Do not overcrowd
- Fry until golden brown. Place on cooling rack, or paper towel lined plate to remove excess oil.
Preparation
The process to make clam fritters is straightforward and quite easy.
To make clam fritters, assemble ingredients which include, clams, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, egg, milk, and oil for frying.
Next, chop the clams into small pieces and mix them with the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Beat the egg and milk together in a separate bowl, then add this mixture to the clam mixture. Stir until well blended. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on a paper towel before serving
What to serve with clam fritters
Serve Eastern Shore clam fritters with a variety of sides. Some popular options include:
- Tartar sauce or cocktail for dipping
- A green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
- Coleslaw for a creamy, crunchy side dish
- French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing
- Lemon wedges add a burst of acidity and brighten up the flavors.
- Grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can be a great addition too.
- Chesapeake Street Corn
You could also serve them with a side of rice or a simple pasta dish.
How to store leftovers
To store leftovers, first, let them cool to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and place them in the refrigerator. They should last for 3-4 days.
To reheat your clam fritters, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Cooking time may vary.
