Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip

Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip Recipe - Deliciously Tangy Appetizer

| Servings: 6

Introduction

Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip is a delicious and savory appetizer that is perfect for any gathering or party. This dip is packed with flavor and has just the right amount of heat to keep you coming back for more.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States as a popular party dish. The combination of clams, cheese, and spices creates a unique and tasty dip that is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Ingredients

3 tbsp of butter
1 small white onion, finely diced
0.5 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 can of minced clams, drained
0.25 lb (113 g) of processed cheese
4 tbsp of catsup
1 tbsp of worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp of dry sherry
0.25 tsp of black pepper

How to prepare

Melt the butter in the top of a double-boiler, then add the onion and peppers. Sauté over direct heat for 3 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients and cook over hot water until the cheese has melted, stirring often.
Serve in a hot chafing dish.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos or hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Substitute crab meat for the clams for a different flavor profile.
Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the minced clams well before adding them to the dip to prevent excess liquid.

- Be sure to stir the dip often while cooking to ensure that the cheese melts evenly.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your personal preference for spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette for a delicious and satisfying snack.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a double-boiler to melt the cheese and cook the ingredients evenly without burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh clams instead of canned if available.

- Substitute cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for processed cheese if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This dip can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dip with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this dip with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dip is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and shellfish (clams).

Summary

Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer that is high in protein and calcium, but also contains a moderate amount of fat and calories.

Summary

Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, this dip is a perfect addition to any party menu.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small coastal town. I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with my mother and grandmother, watching them cook and learning from their wisdom.

One day, my grandmother received a visit from an old friend who had just returned from a trip to the southern coast. She brought with her a collection of recipes she had collected during her travels, and one in particular caught my eye – the recipe for Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip. As soon as I saw the ingredients and read through the instructions, I knew I had to try it for myself.

I begged my grandmother to let me make the dip for our family dinner that night, and she happily agreed. Together, we gathered all the necessary ingredients – canned clams, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, hot sauce, and a few other seasonings. As I mixed everything together and watched as the dip came together, I could feel my excitement building.

When it was finally time to taste the finished dish, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The creamy texture of the cheese mixed with the briny flavor of the clams and the spicy kick of the hot sauce created a perfect balance of flavors. My family couldn't get enough of it, and they all asked for the recipe so they could make it themselves.

From that day on, Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip became a staple at our family gatherings. I would make it for every potluck, picnic, and holiday celebration, and it never failed to impress. Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a bit more hot sauce here or some garlic there, but the core ingredients have remained the same.

As I grew older, I started to collect more recipes from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I met along my travels. Each recipe told a story, whether it was a family tradition passed down through generations or a new creation inspired by a recent trip. I cherished each one, adding them to my collection and sharing them with anyone who was willing to listen.

One day, I had the opportunity to travel to the southern coast myself, just like my grandmother's friend had all those years ago. I visited small fishing villages, bustling markets, and quaint seafood shacks, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the ocean. Everywhere I went, I asked for recipes, eager to learn more about the local cuisine and traditions.

It was during this trip that I discovered the secret to making the perfect Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip. I met an old fisherman who had been making the dish for his family for decades, and he graciously invited me into his home to watch him prepare it. As he showed me his technique and shared his tips and tricks, I realized that there was so much more to cooking than just following a recipe – it was about passion, patience, and love.

After returning home, I added the fisherman's secrets to my own recipe, making the dip even more flavorful and satisfying. Every time I make it now, I think of him and the lessons he taught me about cooking and life. I know that my grandmother would be proud of the cook I have become, thanks to her guidance and the inspiration of others I have met along the way.

So as I sit here, preparing another batch of Spicy Hot Clam and Cheese Dip for my family to enjoy, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have learned and the stories they have told. Cooking has always been more than just a way to fill our bellies – it is a way to connect with others, to share our heritage, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.