Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThames Street Oyster HouseRhode Island Whole Belly Fried Clam Roll Recipe

Rhode Island Whole Belly Fried Clam Roll Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

house made pickle tartar sauce, buttered split-top bun, coleslaw

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Ingredients

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For the Fried Clams

For the Clam Roll

Method

For the Fried Clams

  1. 1

    Prepare the Clams

    Rinse the whole belly clams under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Breading Mixture

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

  3. 3

    Add Liquid

    Gradually add the cold beer or sparkling water to the flour mixture until you get a thick batter.

  4. 4

    Heat Oil

    In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Clams

    Dip the clams into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Fry in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

For the Pickle Tartar Sauce

  1. 6

    Combine Ingredients

    In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, finely chopped dill pickles, capers, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  2. 7

    Chill

    Cover and refrigerate the tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

For the Coleslaw

  1. 8

    Mix the Vegetables

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

  2. 9

    Prepare the Dressing

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

  3. 10

    Combine and Chill

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Clam Roll

  1. 11

    Butter and Toast Buns

    Spread butter on the insides of the split-top buns and toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

  2. 12

    Assemble the Roll

    Place a generous portion of fried clams into each bun. Top with a dollop of pickle tartar sauce and a small serving of coleslaw.

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