Sesame Fried Clams

"Dig These Clams", Good Food Magazine, August 1986

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2  dozen littleneck clams, shucked
• 1  large egg
• 1⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1⁄4 cup  club soda or 1⁄4 cup seltzer water
• 2  tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted, cooled
• 1  teaspoon  oriental sesame oil
• 1  teaspoon baking powder
•  vegetable oil or   peanut oil, for deep-frying
•  rice vinegar

Directions

1. Rinse clams. Drain well, then dry thoroughly with paper towels. (Important! If clams are not completely dry before coating, they will sputter violently when added to hot oil.).
2. Whisk egg in small bowl. Add flour, club soda, sesame seeds and oil, and baking powder; whisk until completely blended.
3. Heat 2 inches oil in deep medium skillet to 375 degrees. Dip 6 dry clams into batter, then add to oil. Fry, turning once, until golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and keep warm in oven while frying remaining clams.
4. Serve clams as appetizer and drizzle with vinegar.