Steamed Clams

Steamed Clams brings together the briny sweetness of fresh clams with the smoky richness of bacon and the gentle sweetness of sautéed onions. Everything is steamed together to create a light yet flavour-packed broth that clings beautifully to the shells. Steamed Clams is an impressive but unfussy dish perfect for sharing at the table.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings Portions

Ingredients

1.5 kg clams fresh scrubbed and rinsed
200 g streaky bacon chopped
1 large onion finely sliced
2 cloves garlic minced
250 ml dry white wine or fish stock
1 tbsp butter
1/4 bunch fresh parsley chopped
1/6 bunch fresh thyme or chives chopped
black pepper to taste
1 large lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Rinse the clams under cold running water and give them a gentle scrub to remove any grit. Discard any cracked shells or clams that don't close when tapped.
1.5 kg clams
In a large, wide pot with a lid, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy and releases its fat. Remove a few pieces for garnish later, if desired.
200 g streaky bacon
Add the sliced onion to the pot with the bacon and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic
Pour in the white wine or fish stock and let it simmer for a minute to allow the alcohol to cook off if using wine.
250 ml dry white wine
Add the clams to the pot, give everything a quick stir, and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Let the clams steam for 5–7 minutes, shaking the pot gently halfway through, until the shells open.
Discard any that stay closed.
Add the butter and scatter in the chopped parsley and any other herbs you're using. Season with a little black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir so the clams are coated in the aromatic broth.
1 tbsp butter, 1/4 bunch fresh parsley, 1/6 bunch fresh thyme, black pepper
Transfer to a large bowl, piling the clams high in their shells.
Spoon over the broth and scatter the reserved bacon and extra herbs on top.
Serve the steamed clams with crusty bread and lemon wedges if you like.
1 large lemon

Nutrition