Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBrickhouse TavernFried Whole Belly Clams Recipe

Fried Whole Belly Clams Recipe

Inspired by Brickhouse Tavern
Time1h
Serves4

Native whole bellies, lightly battered and fried golden brown. Served with french fries, cole slaw and tarter sauce.

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Ingredients

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For the Fried Whole Belly Clams

For the French Fries

For the Cole Slaw

For the Tartar Sauce

Method

Fried Whole Belly Clams

  1. 1

    Prepare the batter

    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add cold water while whisking until smooth and slightly thick.

  2. 2

    Heat the oil

    In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).

  3. 3

    Batter the clams

    Dredge the whole belly clams in the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.

  4. 4

    Fry the clams

    Carefully drop the battered clams into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

French Fries

  1. 5

    Cut the potatoes

    Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.

  2. 6

    Soak the potatoes

    Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry.

  3. 7

    Fry the fries

    In another large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then season with salt to taste.

Cole Slaw

  1. 8

    Mix the slaw ingredients

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

  2. 9

    Prepare the dressing

    In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.

  3. 10

    Combine slaw and dressing

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, tossing well to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tartar Sauce

  1. 11

    Mix the tartar sauce

    In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, chopped capers, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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