Qatari-style Spiced Clam Cake

Ingredients

In this Qatari adaptation of the American clam cake, we infuse the dish with Qatari flavors and spices. The original recipe is enhanced with traditional Qatari spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder, which add a delightful warmth and depth to the dish. Additionally, we incorporate local Qatari ingredients to give the clam cakes a unique twist that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Qatar. We alse have the original recipe for Clam Cake, so you can check it out.

• 1 pound (450g) fresh clams, shelled and chopped 1 pound (450g) fresh clams, shelled and chopped
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and water.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped clams, onion, garlic, and cilantro to the batter, and mix well to combine.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Drop spoonfuls of the clam cake batter into the hot oil, frying them in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Remove the cooked clam cakes from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. 8.
   Serve the Qatari-style spiced clam cakes hot, garnished with additional fresh cilantro if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Clams — Ensure that the clams are fresh and properly cleaned before chopping them. Discard any clams that do not open during cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
• Serve the Qatari-style spiced clam cakes with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the clam cakes in the oven instead of frying them. Simply place spoonfuls of the batter on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Qatari-style spiced clam cakes as an appetizer with a side of yogurt sauce or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad and traditional Qatari bread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Qatari-style spiced clam cakes on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of ground cumin for an attractive presentation. Serve them alongside a small bowl of yogurt sauce for dipping.