Razor Clam Fritters
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these fritters are packed with sweet, briny razor clams. A beloved classic from the Pacific Northwest coast, perfect as an appetizer or a light meal with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Fritter Batter
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined. This ensures the leavening and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- c.In a separate medium bowl, lightly beat the egg, then whisk in the milk.
- d.Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.
- e.Gently fold in the finely chopped razor clams, finely chopped onion, and fresh parsley until they are just incorporated into the batter.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Shallow Fry the Fritters
- b.Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works great) to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C), or until a small drop of batter sizzles immediately upon contact.
- c.Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop portions of the batter into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches of 4-5 fritters at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
- d.Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- e.Flip the fritters carefully with a thin spatula or tongs and fry for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, until golden brown all over and cooked through.
- f.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked fritters to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain. This keeps them crispy. Lightly season with a pinch of salt while they are still hot.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Serve and Enjoy
- b.Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter, adding a little more oil to the pan if needed between batches.
- c.Serve the razor clam fritters immediately while they are hot and crispy, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. They are also delicious with tartar sauce or a spicy aioli.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, ensure your razor clams are chopped finely. This helps them cook evenly and integrate well into the batter.
- 2Do not overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature stays high, resulting in crispy, not greasy, fritters.
- 3A small cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) is perfect for creating uniformly sized fritters that cook at the same rate.
- 4If using frozen clams, thaw them completely and pat them very dry with paper towels before chopping to remove excess moisture, which can make the batter watery.
- 5Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before frying. This allows the flour to hydrate and can result in a more tender fritter.
- 6Keep cooked fritters warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a wire rack while you fry the remaining batches.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño to the batter for a spicy kick.
HerbyHerby
Incorporate other fresh herbs like dill or chives along with the parsley for a more complex flavor profile.
Vegetable Add inVegetable Add-in
Fold in 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen (and thawed) corn kernels or finely diced bell pepper for added sweetness and texture.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Razor clams are an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Excellent Source of Iron
These clams are packed with iron, a vital mineral for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness.
Provides Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Razor clams contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
High in Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve function and the formation of DNA and red blood cells. Razor clams are a significant natural source of this important nutrient.
Frequently asked questions
While razor clams themselves are a healthy source of lean protein, iron, and omega-3s, these fritters are shallow-fried, which adds fat and calories. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a treat or appetizer.