Buttermilk Fried Clam Roll with Spicy Pickle Dressing

8 ounces fresh clam bellies

1/2 cup pickled peppers, such as B and G, sliced

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup mayonnaise, preferably Japanese, such as Kewpie

1/4 cup drained pickles, chopped

1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon chopped capers

1 tablespoon finely minced fresh parsley

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

4 cups shredded romaine lettuce

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 quarts neutral oil, for frying

1 cup fine cornmeal

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Spanish paprika

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

4 hot dog buns or brioche long rolls

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Special equipment: a deep-frying thermometer

For the clams and peppers: Put the clam bellies and peppers in a bowl, add the buttermilk and let soak, refrigerated, for at least 8 hours or overnight.
For the sauce: Combine the mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, capers and parsley in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
For the sandwiches: In a bowl, toss the shredded lettuce with the vinegar and set aside.
Heat the oil in a large, deep, straight-sided pot until a deep-frying thermometer registers 360 degrees F. Line a plate with paper towels.
Combine the cornmeal, flour, Parmesan, garlic powder and paprika in a shallow dish. Season with salt and pepper.
Using a slotted spoon, scoop the clam bellies and peppers out of the buttermilk, leaving the excess behind. Toss in the flour-cheese mixture to evenly coat.
Fry the clams and peppers in the hot oil until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Drain on the towel-lined plate and season immediately with salt and pepper.
Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Slice the buns in half lengthwise and butter the cut sides. Cook the buns butter-side down until toasted.
Spread the sauce on both sides of the buns and top with lettuce, fried clam bellies and peppers.

By: Geoffrey Zakarian