Steamed Clams for Two

ellie_'s Note:

I came across this recipe and first thing I thought was "Not the Steamed Clams I grew up on" but thought this was a more elegant version of the steamed clams I loved eating as a kid in the summer. I haven't tried this recipe yet but can't wait to try these and surprise my family with these. Recipe source: Bon Appetit (March 1984)

• Total Time: 25 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 2

• 6 tablespoons butter , melted
• ¼ cup white wine
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tablespoon parsley , minced
• 1 dash hot pepper sauce
• 1 ½ lbs clams , scrubbed
• lemon wedge , garnish

Directions:

1. In the bottom of a steamer bring 2 tablespoons butter, wine, water, parsley and hot pepper sauce to a boil.
2. Arrange clams on rack and place in steamer. Cover and steam for 6-10 minutes or until clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.
3. Divide clams (in their shells) in two bowls.
4. Strain broth and ladle over clams.
5. Divide remaining butter (4 tablespoons) between 2 small dishes (for dipping). Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

Reviews

[Doc's Mom]

I used 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper instead of the hot sauce and added 1 large clove of finely chopped garlic. Also I did not strain the broth. Fabulous!!!! DH kept raving about the clams and asked for them again tonight. I also garnished the dish with some chopped green onions. Oh, don’t forget the sourdough bread!

[Stuffed]

There's something about eating shellfish cooked in a delicious white wine broth that is so romantic. Paired with a good bottle of white wine and some crusty, warm sour dough bread, this is a wonderful meal for two... dessert is sure to follow.

[Lt. Amy]

Very good. I'm used to throwing the clams right into the liquid, putting the clams in a steamer tray is a great change. This way the sauce wasn't too "clammy." Instead it was buttery, tangy and saucy, very good. adding to my review: I made this again the other night, I think next time I will double the recipe for the sauce. My boyfriend both love dipping our bread in the sauce, and we ran out last night.