Frequently Asked Questions
What are Golden Provincetown Clam Fritters?
They are a traditional New England coastal appetizer consisting of minced clams in a crispy, seasoned batter.
How many cans of clams are needed for this recipe?
You will need two 10-ounce cans of minced clams.
Should I drain the clams?
Yes, the clams should be very well drained, but you must reserve 1/2 cup of the juice for the batter.
What is the ideal oil temperature for frying?
The oil should be preheated to 360°F (182°C) before frying the fritters.
How much flour is required?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Is baking powder used in the batter?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of baking powder are used to help the fritters rise and stay light.
How many eggs are needed?
The recipe requires 2 well-beaten eggs.
What liquid is used for the batter?
The batter uses a combination of 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of the reserved clam juice.
How long do the fritters need to fry?
Fry the fritters for approximately 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
What is the best way to portion the batter into the oil?
You can use a spoon or a small ice cream scoop to drop heaping spoonfuls into the hot oil.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 8 servings.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The batter is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
How should the fritters be served?
Serve them hot with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
What type of dish is this categorized as?
It is categorized as a savory seafood appetizer or snack.
Should I sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, sifting the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper helps ensure the batter is well combined and smooth.
Can I use a deep fryer for this?
Yes, a deep fryer or a heavy deep pot can be used for frying.
When should the clams be added to the mix?
The minced clams should be folded in gently after the wet and dry ingredients have been combined.
How do I remove the fritters from the oil?
Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the fritters once they are golden brown.
What should I do after removing them from the oil?
Drain the fritters on paper towels to remove any excess oil before serving.
Is it important not to overcrowd the pot?
Yes, frying in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and ensures even cooking.
What is the texture of these fritters?
They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Where does this recipe style originate from?
The recipe is inspired by the coastal cuisine of Provincetown and New England.
Can I use other types of fat for frying?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either cooking oil or fat suitable for frying.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 9 ingredients including the serving garnish.
What happens if the batter has lumps?
You should stir the batter gently until it is smooth and free from lumps before adding the clams.
Do I need to beat the eggs before adding them?
Yes, the eggs should be well beaten before being mixed with the milk and clam juice.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is noted as being quick to prepare and a great option for a fast snack.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The primary flavor is savory seafood with a hint of seasoning and fresh lemon.
Should the clam juice be mixed with anything?
The reserved juice should be mixed with the milk before adding the beaten eggs.
Can these be made for a party?
Absolutely, they are described as an impressive appetizer for family and friends.