Air Fryer Fried Clams: A Tasty, Healthy Treat?

Fried clams are a popular seafood dish that can be made in an air fryer. They are typically deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior, but using an air fryer is a healthier alternative that still delivers on taste and texture. This method of cooking fried clams is quick, easy, and convenient, making it a go-to option for those who want to indulge in this delicious treat without the mess and guilt of traditional deep frying.

How to make fried clams in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Fresh clams (soft-shell or hard-shell)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Eggs
• Cooking oil spray
• Olive oil (optional)
• Tartar sauce (optional)
• Cocktail sauce (optional)
• Lemon (optional)

Method

• Gather your ingredients.
• Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any dirt or sand.
• Place the clams in a large bowl of cold water with some salt for about 20 minutes.
• Combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a medium-sized bowl.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
• Remove the clams from the water and pat them dry.
• Dip each clam into the beaten egg, then coat them in the flour mixture.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
• Place the coated clams in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips:

• You can also use frozen, pre-cooked, breaded clam strips. Cook these from frozen for 8-10 minutes at 375-400°F, without defrosting or adding oil.
• If using raw clam strips, increase the cooking time and add a cooking spray to ensure they crisp up.
• For a more authentic fried clam taste, shuck your own clams and use corn flour instead of all-purpose flour for the coating.

The benefits of using an air fryer

Yes, you can make fried clams in an air fryer. Here is a quick recipe:

Ingredients:

• Fresh clams (soft-shell or hard-shell)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Eggs
• Cooking oil spray

Instructions:

• Clean and prepare the clams by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or sand.
• Place the clams in a bowl of cold water with salt for about 20 minutes to remove any remaining sand or grit.
• Create a coating mixture by combining flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl. Whisk eggs in a separate bowl.
• Dip the clams in the egg mixture, then coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
• Place the coated clams in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
• Serve with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Now, here are the benefits of using an air fryer:

• Healthy cooking: Air fryers allow you to enjoy the taste and texture of deep-fried foods with minimal oil. By cutting back on the amount of oil used, air fryers reduce the fat and calorie content of your meals, making them a healthier option.
• Juicy and crispy results: Air fryers circulate hot air around your food at high heat, creating a crispy, golden brown exterior while maintaining a moist and juicy interior. This technique delivers the satisfying crunch of fried food without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Fast and convenient: Air fryers heat up and cook food much faster than traditional ovens. They also require less preparation and cleanup, making them ideal for busy weeknights and quick snacks.
• Versatility: Air fryers can cook a wide variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, seafood, and even desserts. They can be used for frying, baking, grilling, roasting, and heating leftovers.
• Easy to use: Air fryers are simple to operate. Just place your food in the basket, set the temperature and timer, and let the air fryer do the work. Some models also have preset functions for added convenience.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers use less energy than traditional ovens and stovetops, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money on your electricity bill.
• No preheating required: Unlike ovens, air fryers don't need preheating, allowing you to start cooking immediately. This feature saves time and makes air fryers perfect for last-minute meals or snacks.
• Compact and countertop-friendly: Air fryers are designed to be compact and fit on your kitchen countertop. They take up less space than a conventional oven while offering similar functionality.
• Easy to clean: Air fryer baskets are typically dishwasher-safe or can be easily washed by hand, making cleanup a breeze.
• Reheat leftovers: Air fryers are excellent for reheating leftovers, keeping them crispy and tasty instead of soggy, as they might become in a microwave.

What to serve with air fryer clams

There are several side dishes that can complement air fryer clams, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the clams. Opt for a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic-infused butter add a delightful crunch and flavour contrast to the clams.
• Coleslaw: The creamy and tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy clams, making it a perfect side dish.
• French Fries or Potato Wedges: Potatoes are a beloved pairing with fried seafood. Whether you choose classic fries or seasoned wedges, they will satisfy carb cravings.
• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, offer a healthy and flavourful balance to the meal.

These side dishes will not only taste delicious but also provide a variety of textures and flavours to enhance your dining experience.

How to store leftover air fryer clams

Storing leftover air fryer clams properly is essential to maintain their freshness and quality. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover air fryer clams:

Choosing the Right Container

Use an airtight container to store the leftover clams. Make sure the container is clean and dry before placing the clams inside. The container should be just large enough to hold the clams snugly, with minimal extra space. This helps to prevent the clams from drying out or absorbing other odours from the refrigerator.

Draining Excess Moisture

Before placing the clams in the container, ensure that they are well-drained. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess and a shorter shelf life. Gently pat the clams with a paper towel to absorb any visible moisture.

Refrigerating the Clams

Leftover air fryer clams can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place the sealed container on a shelf in the refrigerator, ensuring it is not overcrowded. Maintain a consistent temperature in the refrigerator, ideally at or below 40°F (4°C). This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep your clams fresh for longer.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you plan to store the leftover clams for more than 3 days, consider freezing them. Place the clams in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a sealed plastic bag. Frozen air fryer clams can be stored for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date of freezing so you can keep track of how long they have been frozen.

Reheating Safely

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover clams, it's essential to reheat them properly to retain their taste and texture. The best way to reheat them is in the air fryer itself. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (187°C) and place the clams inside for about 4-5 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the clams rubbery and unappetizing.

Food Safety Considerations

Always use clean utensils when handling leftover clams, and avoid cross-contamination with other foods. Consume the leftover clams within the recommended time frame and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming. If the clams have an unpleasant odour or appearance, discard them immediately.

The history of fried clams

Fried clams, a popular seafood dish, have been enjoyed for several decades. While the exact origin of fried clams is not definitively known, their popularity can be traced back to the mid-20th century.

The earliest known references to fried clams date back to the 1940s and 1950s when seafood shacks and coastal restaurants in the United States began offering fried clam dishes on their menus. These dishes gained popularity as they provided a convenient and delicious way to enjoy clams without the hassle of shucking them from their shells.

However, the story of fried clams goes back even further. On July 3, 1916, in Essex, Massachusetts, Lawrence 'Chubby' Woodman and his wife, Bessie, owned a small concession stand. They sold various items, including homemade potato chips and fresh clams that Chubby dug himself. On that fateful day, a local fisherman named Tarr stopped by the stand, and Chubby jokingly complained about the slow business. Tarr then pointed at a bucket of clams and suggested they try frying them.

Chubby and Bessie took the suggestion seriously and decided to give it a go. They shucked the clams, heated some lard in a pot, and experimented with different batters. They invited some locals to taste their creation, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. The following day, during the 4th of July parade, Chubby and Bessie introduced fried clams to the citizens of Essex, and thus, a new culinary sensation was born.

The success of fried clams at the Woodmans' stand soon spread, and a year later, a Boston fish market advertised that it was "equipped to serve the new taste treat—fried clams." Howard Johnson, the owner of a chain of restaurants across the East Coast, even came to learn the art of frying clams from Chubby himself.

The popularity of fried clams continued to grow, and in the 1960s and 1970s, the rise of fast-food seafood chains further contributed to the spread of fried clam strips as a favourite dish across the United States.

Frequently asked questions