spicy fried clams

How to Make Spicy Stir-Fried Clams: A Comprehensive Guide

Spicy stir-fried clams, a beloved coastal delicacy, combine briny sweetness with a fiery kick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this dish.

Ingredients: 500g fresh clams (soaked in salted water to purge sand), 3 tbsp cooking oil, 4 sliced garlic cloves, 1 chopped chili (adjust to taste), 1 tbsp ginger julienne, 2 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 2 tbsp rice wine, and chopped green onions for garnish.

Steps:

1. Prep the clams: Scrub shells under cold water and soak in salted water for 30 minutes. Rinse and drain.

2. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chili until fragrant (1–2 minutes).

3. Cook the clams: Add clams and gochugaru. Toss briefly, then pour in rice wine and soy sauce. Cover and cook for 3–5 minutes, until clams open (discard any unopened ones).

4. Finish and serve: Sprinkle sugar to balance flavors, stir, and garnish with green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra umami, add a dash of sesame oil or a spoonful of fermented black beans. Adjust spice levels by varying gochugaru or adding sliced bell peppers. Enjoy this vibrant, umami-packed dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly addictive!