Whole Belly Clams - Frozen 2 Lb

• Wild or Farmed: Wild
• Availability: Year Round
• State: Frozen
• Clam Sizes Available: Small (select), Large (Regular), Extra Large (Whales)
• Clam Container Size: 2 Lb (32 Oz)
• Breading Container Size: 1.5 Lb (24 Oz)
• Harvest Area: Massachusetts: Gloucester, Essex, Ipswich Bay
• Scientific Name: Mya arenaria

What is the difference between the small (select) and the large (regular) size clams?

• The small clams are around 2 - 2.5 inches long and the large size clams are 3 - 3.5 inches long. They are the exact same clam harvested from the same areas, it is only the size of the clam that makes them different. The large clams also have larger bellies.

Is there a taste difference between the two sizes?

• There is no difference in taste between the two sizes, but most people do say the larger size clams have more flavor due to the larger size bellies.

Are the clams supposed to be “chewy?”

• No, they absolutely are not supposed to be, it does not matter which size. If you find the clams to be “chewy,” then that means they are overcooked. These clams cook very fast, so you want to keep an eye on them.

Which size is the most popular?

• Our online customers have been LOVING the large size clams, the majority of our customers are New England natives that have moved to other parts of the USA who miss and love their fried clams. Our wholesale customers (Intershell’s customers & seafood companies that distribute to restaurants) prefer the smaller size clams. It all comes down to personal preference.

It is my first time eating whole belly clams, which size should I get?

• If it is your first time trying our whole belly clams, we recommend trying the smaller size first. The smaller size clams have smaller bellies which makes the flavor on the more mild side, people who prefer mild flavors for their seafood find them easier to eat. We include recipe cards with cooking directions in all whole belly frying clam orders, we also have it on our website too which you can download and print at your convenience.

I want to fry the clams at home, do you also sell breading?

• Yes, we have seafood breading available to purchase. The owner has used this specific breading for the last 30 years for all of his frying needs and swears by it! We also sell the frozen frying clams and our seafood breading as a pair which you can buy at a discount. The frozen frying clams and seafood breading are also sold separately.

Do you have fresh whole belly clams available in both sizes?

• Yes, we have frozen frying clams available. They are packed in a 4 Lb. container. For more information about our fresh frying clams, click here to view the product description & FAQ’s.

What is the best way to defrost the frozen whole belly frying clams?

• To defrost, just put the container in your refrigerator and allow 24-48 hours. When defrosting, you want to let them defrost as slow as possible in a cooled environment to get the best results. Do NOT rush the defrosting process by running the container under hot water as this will affect the quality and texture of the clams. Clams are very sensitive to heat and will discolor if you do so.

Can I refreeze the clams that I do not eat?

• We do not recommend refreezing the clams after they have been defrosted. Once they are defrosted, they should be eaten within 6 days, so invite some friends to help you eat them if you have to! We recommend buying our fresh whole belly frying clams if you are not able to eat 2 Lb at once because you can always portion and freeze the clams you do not eat, this is usually the better option for individual households.

Rain Closures and Red Tide can affect the year-round availability and price of steamers, frying clams, and razor clams. Click here to read our blog post explaining all the external factors that can affect the availability of wild-caught seafood.

A true New England staple, fresh whole belly frying clams are a coastal icon deeply rooted in Maritime tradition. The absolute best way and only way to cook these sweet delicacies is deep-frying them to golden perfection using Intershell's own signature seafood breading.

Deep-frying is non-negotiable here (sorry! it will not work with an Air fryer); the high heat locks in the clam’s natural juices while crisping the light, seasoned coating to perfection. Every bite delivers a rich, buttery sweetness balanced by a bright ocean brininess, giving you that plump, ridiculously juicy belly contrast you can only get from a real clam shack fry.

Check out our step-by-step recipe for the best tips on how to achieve perfectly fried clams at home. 

Frozen items are shipped with dry ice to ensure the arrive fully frozen. Please place them directly into your freezer upon arrival.

If you order fresh and frozen items together, we package your shipment using gel ice packs instead of dry ice to protect your fresh goods. As a result, frozen items may partially thaw during transit. You can safely place them straight back into your freezer, or allow them to finish defrosting and enjoy right away.

Defrosting Guidelines

1. Overnight in the Fridge: Small packs take 6–12 hours; large packs take 12–48 hours.
2. Cold Water Bowl: Submerge sealed items in cold water for a faster thaw.

• Note: Do not use hot water or attempt to thaw by cooking, as this ruins the natural texture and flavor.