Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsAmherst Oyster BarFried Whole Belly Clams Recipe

Fried Whole Belly Clams Recipe

Inspired by Amherst Oyster Bar
Time1h
Serves4

small or large portion, fries, coleslaw, tartar sauce, lemon

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Ingredients

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Clams

Fries

Garnish

Method

Fried Whole Belly Clams

  1. 1

    Prepare the Clams

    Rinse the whole belly clams under cold water to remove any sand or grit. Pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Coat the Clams

    Dredge the clams in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Clams

    Carefully add the coated clams to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Fries

  1. 6

    Prepare the Potatoes

    Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips to make fries.

  2. 7

    Heat the Oil

    In a separate deep frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  3. 8

    Fry the Potatoes

    Add the potato strips to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt to taste.

Coleslaw

  1. 9

    Combine the Vegetables

    In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrot.

  2. 10

    Make the Dressing

    In a separate small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  3. 11

    Toss Together

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tartar Sauce

  1. 12

    Mix the Ingredients

    In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, chopped capers, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Serving

  1. 13

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the fried whole belly clams with a side of fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges.

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