Tuga Pops − Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 1 Year ago in Seafood Recipes
5 out of 5 with 2 ratings

Quick Azorean-Style Clams with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Make Azorean-style clams with garlic sauce—an authentic Portuguese seafood favorite with a rich, garlicky sauce made for bread dipping.
25 min 3 servings Easy Prep time 10 min Cooking Time 15 min

You will love this Quick Azorean-Style Clams with Garlic Sauce Recipe

Quick Azorean-style clams in garlic sauce bring bold Portuguese flavor to your tablebriny clams simmered in a rich, garlicky sauce that's perfect for dipping crusty bread. Authentic, comforting, and irresistibly savory, this is the kind of seafood dish you'll want to make again and again.


Ingredients

2.2 lbs (1 kg) fresh clams3 cloves garlic, minced1 medium onion, finely chopped1 bay leaf7 tbsp (about 1/2 cup) extra virgin olive oil1/4 cup dry white wine (or regional wine)1 small bunch fresh coriander, choppedSalt and black pepper, to taste1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)1 teaspoon sweet paprikaJuice of 1 lemon

Directions

  1. Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. (If possible, soak them in salted water for 1–2 hours before cooking to help purge the sand.)
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until the onion becomes soft and golden. (If using, add the red bell pepper strips and sauté for another 2–3 minutes.)
  4. Pour in the white wine, add the bay leaf and paprika.
  5. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and blend the flavors.
  6. Add the clams to the skillet and cover.
  7. Let them cook for about 5–7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the clams open. (Discard any clams that do not open.)
  8. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped coriander, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
  10. Serve hot, with plenty of the delicious sauce.
  11. This dish goes beautifully with rustic bread like cornbread or crusty country-style bread to soak up the juices.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Mundo Azores

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
290 kcal
Fat
18 g
Carbs
10 g
Protein
20 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for fresh clams if they're not available?

If fresh clams are not available, you can substitute with other types of shellfish such as mussels or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cook faster.

How should I store leftover clams in garlic sauce?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, but avoid boiling to maintain the texture of the clams.

What should I do if some clams do not open while cooking?

Any clams that do not open after cooking should be discarded, as this indicates they were not alive prior to cooking and may not be safe to eat.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and slightly effervescent wine has a crisp acidity that complements the brininess of the clams and the richness of the garlic sauce.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - A zesty Sauvignon Blanc offers bright citrus notes that enhance the flavors of the dish, particularly the lemon and coriander.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This pale lager is refreshing and has a mild bitterness that balances the richness of the garlic and olive oil in the dish.

General: Pilsner - A crisp and clean Pilsner provides a refreshing contrast to the savory clams and garlic sauce, making it a great pairing.

Other Beverages

Lemonade: A homemade lemonade with fresh lemon juice and a hint of mint can provide a refreshing and slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors of the dish.

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Tuga Pops

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