Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Back Alley Bar & RestaurantClam Dinner (whole Belly) Recipe

Clam Dinner (whole Belly) Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Served with fries, coleslaw and roll

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Clams

Coleslaw

Rolls

Method

Preparing the Clams

  1. 1

    Clean the Clams

    Rinse the whole belly clams under cold water to remove any sand and grit. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare Breading

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

  3. 3

    Coat the Clams

    Dredge each clam in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Cooking the Clams

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F or 175°C).

  2. 5

    Fry the Clams

    Carefully add the breaded clams to the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Preparing the Fries

  1. 6

    Cut the Potatoes

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thick fries.

  2. 7

    Soak in Water

    Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  3. 8

    Fry the Fries

    In a separate pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the soaked fries in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

Making the Coleslaw

  1. 9

    Prepare the Vegetables

    Finely shred the green cabbage and grate the carrot.

  2. 10

    Mix the Dressing

    In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

  3. 11

    Combine

    Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrot to the dressing and toss until well coated.

Serving

  1. 12

    Plate the Meal

    On a large plate, serve the fried clams alongside the crispy fries and coleslaw. Add dinner rolls on the side.

  2. 13

    Enjoy

    Serve hot and enjoy your clam dinner!

More from The Back Alley Bar & Restaurant