Steamed Clams In Garlic And Wine Broth
Steamed Clams in Garlic and Wine Broth offers a delightful taste of the sea with its simple yet flavorful preparation. This dish showcases tender clams bathed in a fragrant broth of white wine, garlic, shallots, and butter. The briny sweetness of the clams is complemented by the aromatic garlic and the acidity of the wine, creating a savory broth that begs to be soaked up with crusty bread.
Finished with a touch of fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges for brightness, this recipe promises a satisfying seafood experience that is both elegant and easy to prepare.
Steamed Clams In Garlic And Wine Broth
Ingredients:
1lb Clams, rinsed and cleaned
1 large Shallot, minced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup White Wine
4 tablespoons Butter
Fresh chopped Parsley (for garnish)
Lemon Wedges (for garnish)
Salt & Pepper
Instructions:
Add two tablespoons of butter to a large skillet over medium-high heat
Add shallots and cook until softened, approx. 1-2 minutes
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
Add white wine and bring to a boil. Cook until reduced by about half, approximately 2-3 minutes
Add clams, cover, and steam until clams open
Using a slotted spoon, remove clams to a serving dish. Continue to simmer white wine and garlic mix until reduce by half
Turn off heat and add remaining butter. Swirl butter in the pan to emulsify into the white wine. Once fully incorporated, add fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour finished sauce over clams and serve with your favorite crusty bread
Notes:
Ingredient Preparation: Ensure clams are thoroughly rinsed and cleaned to remove any sand or grit. Mince the shallot and garlic finely for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Cooking Technique: Cooking starts with a base of butter, shallots, and garlic to build a fragrant foundation for the broth. The addition of white wine adds acidity and depth, which reduces to intensify flavors.
Steaming the Clams: The clams are added to the simmering broth, covered, and steamed until they open. This ensures they are cooked through but still tender.
Creating the Broth: After removing the clams, the remaining wine and garlic mixture is further reduced. Adding butter at this stage helps create a velvety texture and enriches the sauce. Emulsifying the butter into the wine is crucial for a cohesive sauce.
Finishing Touches: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
Serving: Serve the steamed clams in shallow bowls, generously spooning the flavorful broth over them. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for brightness. Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Variations: For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust the seasoning according to personal preference.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 360 kcal | Protein: 15 grams (mainly from clams) | Fat: 22 grams (from butter) | Carbohydrates: 10 grams | Fiber: 1 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
What kind of clams should I use for this recipe?
Use fresh clams that are suitable for steaming, such as littleneck or Manila clams.
How do I clean clams before cooking?
Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any dirt or sand.
You can also scrub them gently with a brush if needed.
Can I substitute the white wine with something else?
Yes, you can substitute white wine with seafood broth or chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
How long should I cook the clams?
Cook the clams until they open, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes after adding them to the simmering broth.
Discard any clams that do not open.
Do I need to add salt to the broth?
Be cautious with salt as clams are naturally salty.
Taste the broth before adding salt at the end of cooking, if necessary.
What can I serve with steamed clams other than crusty bread?
Steamed clams also pair well with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.
Can I prepare the broth ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic and wine broth ahead of time and reheat it gently before adding the clams.
How can I tell if clams are fresh and safe to eat?
Fresh clams should have tightly closed shells or close when tapped.
Discard any clams with cracked or open shells that do not close when tapped.
Can I freeze leftover steamed clams?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked clams as their texture may become rubbery.
It’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Is this recipe suitable for those with seafood allergies?
No, this recipe contains clams and is not suitable for individuals with seafood allergies.