Fried Razor Clams with Willabay Breading

Fried razor clams are a delicious delicacy, and using Willabay Breading adds a special touch to enhance their flavor. 

Ingredients:

• Fresh razor clams (cleaned and prepared, approximately 1-2 pounds)
• Willabay Breading mix
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil (vegetable oil or peanut oil works well)

Instructions:

Preparing the Clams:

1. Clean and Prepare the Clams: Rinse the razor clams under cold water to remove any sand or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess tissue or membranes.

2. Slice the Clams: Lay the clams flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the clams into strips about 1/2 inch thick. This allows for even cooking and makes them easier to handle.

3. Season the Clams: Season the clam strips with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Set aside.

Breading the Clams:

1. Prepare the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. In another shallow bowl, pour out an ample amount of Willabay Breading mix.

2. Coat the Clams: Dip each clam strip into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the clam strip generously with the Willabay Breading mix, ensuring it's fully coated on all sides. Repeat this process for all the clam strips.

Frying the Clams:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour cooking oil into a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, filling it with about 2 inches of oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. It's crucial to maintain a consistent temperature throughout frying.

2. Fry the Clams: Carefully place the breaded clam strips into the hot oil, one by one, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry the clams in batches, if necessary, to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

3. Drain and Serve: Once the clams are fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

4. Serve Hot: Serve the fried razor clams immediately while they're still hot and crispy. They pair perfectly with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious fried razor clams made with Willabay Breading, reminiscent of Long Beach, Washington's coastal flavors!