Eamgliemenes with a Thai Twist

This delightful Thai-style clam dish combines the freshest ingredients with aromatic spices to create a symphony of flavors that will transport you to Southeast Asia. Fresh clams, fragrant herbs, and creamy coconut milk blend perfectly, providing a comforting yet exotic meal that's perfect for a special occasion or an everyday dinner. The dish is infused with the zest of lemongrass and a hint of heat from chillies, balanced with the smoothness of white wine and the subtle sweetness of coconut milk. Fresh thyme and coriander add a bright, herbal note, enhancing the clams' natural taste. A side of crusty white bread helps soak up all the rich, flavorful broth. This dish not only promises an exciting taste adventure but is also quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Ideal for seafood lovers and those looking to try something new, it can be adapted to various dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, this Thai-inspired recipe promises to delight your senses.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Fresh clams: 1 kg
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Coconut milk: 400 ml can
White wine: 100 ml
Fresh white bread: slices for serving

Herbs and Spices:

Fresh thyme: 2-3 sprigs
Fresh coriander: 1 small bunch, coarsely chopped
Garlic: 2-3 cloves
Ginger root: 5 thin slices
Lemongrass: 1 stalk
Chili: 1 (seeds removed if less heat is desired)
Salt: To taste

Preparation Time

Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Clams: Wash the fresh clams thoroughly under running cold water using a brush to remove any dirt. Pull off the beards. To check their freshness, tap them gently against the edge of a counter. Discard any that do not close after tapping.
Prepare Aromatics: Lightly crush the unpeeled garlic cloves using the flat side of a knife to release their juices.
Sauté Aromatics: In a pot or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Heat: Add the chopped chili to the garlic (you can remove the seeds beforehand to control the heat level).
Incorporate Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk, followed by the white wine. Stir gently and allow it to simmer.
Season: Add salt to taste, 2-3 sprigs of thyme, and the slices of ginger to the pot. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
Add Clams: Carefully drop the washed clams into the boiling broth. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook Until Done: Check the clams. If they're open, they're done. Discard any that remain closed.
Finish With Herbs: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped coriander over the finished soup for a burst of fresh, herbal flavor.
Serve: Divide the clam soup into two bowls. Serve immediately with slices of fresh white bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Tips

Spice Control: Remove chili seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.
Wine Substitute: For a non-alcoholic version, replace wine with an equal amount of vegetable broth.
Freshness Check: Tap any open clams before cooking. If they don't close, discard them.

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
Protein: 35g
Fats: 22g
Carbs: 15g

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute clams with firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Gluten-Free: Replace bread with gluten-free alternatives.
Extra Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light, crisp white wine.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad for added crunch.
Garnish with extra coriander or lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Best Places

Maison Premiere - Known for its excellent seafood bar and elegant setting. Location: 298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
La Mar de Boqueria - Offers delicious seafood in an open market setting. Location: Rambla, Barcelona, Spain.
Oyster Club - Renowned for fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere. Location: 13 Water St, Mystic, CT, USA.
S.E.A. Thai - Offers Thai flavors and fresh clam dishes. Location: Rochester, UK.
The Walrus and The Carpenter - Trendy spot for oysters and fresh seafood. Location: 4743 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA, USA.
Fish Cheeks - Thai-style seafood with vibrant flavors. Location: 55 Bond St, New York, NY, USA.
Angler - Offers fine dining with an emphasis on seafood. Location: 132 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, USA.
Bornholm Kød & Fisk - Provides fresh, innovative seafood dishes. Location: Torvvaenget, Nexø, Denmark.
Tamarind Hill - Known for a blend of Asian flavors and fresh seafood. Location: Singapore.
Cervejaria Ramiro - Famous for excellent seafood in Lisbon. Location: Av. Almirante Reis, Lisbon, Portugal.