Chinese-style stir-fried clams, is a popular seafood dish found in coastal Chinese cities and night markets. It's known for its rich aroma, savory-sweet flavor, and spicy garlicky kick. Quick to prepare and full of ocean freshness, this dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice or a cold beer.
Ingredients
Main:
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500g (about 1 lb) fresh clams (preferably flower clams or Manila clams)
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced thinly
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2–3 dried red chilies (optional, for spice)
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1 fresh red chili, sliced (optional)
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1 scallion, cut into sections
Seasoning:
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1 tablespoon light soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color)
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1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
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1/2 teaspoon sugar
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Salt to taste
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1/4 cup water or clam soaking liquid (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Clean the Clams
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Soak the clams in salted water (add a bit of oil) for 1–2 hours to help them spit out sand.
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Scrub the shells gently under running water.
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Rinse and drain.
Step 2: Parboil (Optional but Recommended)
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In boiling water, briefly blanch the clams until they just begin to open (about 30 seconds). Drain and set aside.
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This step helps remove excess grit and makes the final stir-fry less watery.
Cooking Instructions
Step 3: Stir-Fry
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Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add garlic, ginger, dried chilies, and scallions. Stir-fry until fragrant.
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Add the clams and give them a quick stir.
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Splash in Shaoxing wine to deglaze.
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Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well.
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Add a bit of water or clam liquid if needed to create sauce.
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Cover and cook for about 2–3 minutes until all clams open up.
🚫 Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.
Final Touch
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Give it a final toss to coat all clams in the sauce.
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Taste and adjust salt or chili level if needed.
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Optionally, garnish with more fresh chili or chopped scallions.
Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with:
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Steamed jasmine rice
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Cold beer
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Or as a side dish in a Chinese meal spread
Tips
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Fresh clams are key—don’t use any that smell off or remain shut after cooking.
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Add a handful of Thai basil or a splash of chili oil for flavor variations.
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For extra umami, add a few fermented black beans during stir-frying.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
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Fast & easy – done in under 15 minutes!
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Full of bold flavors – spicy, garlicky, umami-packed.
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A taste of the sea – simple yet irresistibly fresh.
This dish captures the essence of Chinese home-style seafood and is perfect for family dinners or parties.
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