Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams Recipe from Taiwan with Red Peppers and Basil

Region / culture: Taiwan | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams is a delicious and flavorful dish that is popular in Taiwanese cuisine. This dish features fresh clams cooked with a savory sauce and aromatic basil, creating a dish that is both light and satisfying.

History

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams is a traditional Taiwanese dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Clams are a popular ingredient in Taiwanese cuisine, and this dish showcases the fresh flavors of the sea in a simple and delicious way.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of clams
2 small, fresh, sweet red peppers
0.25 cup of finely chopped fresh basil
2 tbsp of soy sauce
2 tbsp of white wine
1 tsp of minced garlic
1 tsp of sesame oil
3 tbsp of peanut oil for cooking

How to prepare

Clean the clams by scrubbing them under cool running water with a vegetable brush.
Cut the red peppers into sections.
In a separate bowl, mix basil, soy sauce, wine, garlic, and sesame oil.
Heat the peanut oil in a wok or large frying pan.
Once the oil is hot, add the clams and the sauce. Mix well.
Cover and simmer over low heat until the clams open.
This recipe serves four as an appetizer. Serve over rice or noodles for a main course.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a chopped chili pepper to the sauce mixture. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When cooking clams, it is important to clean them thoroughly to remove any sand or grit. Scrubbing the clams under cool running water with a vegetable brush is an effective way to clean them. Additionally, be sure to discard any clams that do not open during cooking, as they may be unsafe to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams can be served as an appetizer or as a main course over rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick and easy cooking technique that allows the clams to cook quickly while retaining their natural flavors and textures. Be sure to cook the clams over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh clams, you can use frozen clams instead. You can also substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can clean and prepare the clams ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The sauce mixture can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh basil leaves. You can also serve this dish in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving this dish with green tea or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the clams in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Clams are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain soy and wheat allergens. It also contains clams, which may be allergenic to some individuals.

Summary

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins and fats, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal option.

Summary

Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With its savory sauce and tender clams, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Taipei. My grandmother, a formidable cook in her own right, had invited a group of friends over for a dinner party. As I watched her deftly prepare dish after dish, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary skills.

One of the dishes she made that evening was Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams. I remember the tantalizing aroma that filled the kitchen as she sautéed the clams with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices made my mouth water with anticipation.

As the guests sat down to eat, I watched in amazement as they savored each bite of the dish. The clams were tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat from the chili peppers. It was clear that my grandmother's recipe was a hit with everyone at the table.

After dinner, I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make such a delicious dish. She smiled and told me that the recipe had been passed down to her from her own mother, who had learned it from a friend many years ago. She explained that the key to making the dish just right was to use the freshest clams available and to season them with just the right amount of spices.

Inspired by my grandmother's culinary prowess, I asked her to teach me how to make Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams. She agreed, and over the next few weeks, she patiently guided me through the process, showing me how to select the best clams, how to clean and prepare them, and how to infuse them with the perfect balance of flavors.

I soon discovered that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about using all of my senses to create something truly special. I learned to trust my instincts and to adjust the seasonings according to my own taste. And most importantly, I learned that the secret ingredient in every dish was love.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I continued to make Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to my grandmother and to the generations of women who had passed down this recipe through the years.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I feel grateful for the gift of this recipe and for the memories it brings back. The simple act of preparing a dish that has been cherished by my family for generations fills me with a sense of pride and joy.

And as I serve Stir-Fried Taiwanese Clams to my own loved ones, I know that I am passing on a piece of my heritage to the next generation. I can only hope that they will carry on the tradition with as much love and devotion as I have. Cooking is not just about making a meal; it's about creating a connection to the past and a bridge to the future. And for that, I am truly grateful.