New England Fried Clams
New England Fried Clams are whole-belly clams that are breaded and deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are a beloved coastal New England specialty, particularly associated with Massachusetts, and are often served in a basket with lemon and tartar sauce.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in fat and protein due to the fried preparation and the clams themselves, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the breading. A typical serving can range from 500 to 800 calories and provides iron, vitamin B12, and selenium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 15 µg |
| Iron | 8 mg |
| Zinc | 5 mg |
| Selenium | 45 µg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Folate | 30 µg |
Per 1 cup (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The modern version was popularized in 1916 at Woodman's of Essex in Massachusetts, making it a relatively recent American culinary invention. Nutritionally, while frying adds calories, clams are a surprisingly lean source of protein and a powerhouse of trace minerals like zinc.
