Cheesy Baked Clams: A Summer Vacation Delicacy!
A Special Summer Treat: Cheesy Baked Clams Recipe
These baked clams, topped with a savory, slightly spicy mixture and melted cheese, offer an unforgettable taste experience perfect for your summer getaway. You can easily recreate this delightful dish at home to elevate any special occasion!
Main Ingredients- 2 fresh clams
- 1/2 Tbsp fine chili powder
- 1 Tbsp chopped scallions
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp soy sauce or ‘yeondu’ (Korean fermented condiment)
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 Tbsp finely diced onion
- Shredded mozzarella cheese, as needed
- Pinch of dried parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the fresh clams. Submerge them in lightly salted water (about 1/2 Tbsp salt per cup of water) and allow them to purge any grit. Refrigerating them overnight or longer ensures a clean taste, free from any fishy odor.
Step 2
Rinse the purged clams thoroughly. Gently pry open the clams and carefully remove the clam meat from the shell using the edge of a spoon. Be careful not to damage the clam meat.
Step 3
Roughly chop the removed clam meat with a knife or a food processor. Avoid making it too fine; leaving some texture will enhance the eating experience.
Step 4
Wash the clam shells thoroughly, as they will be used as serving dishes. Remove any remaining internal matter or grit. Boiling them for 3-5 minutes helps to sanitize them and makes them cleaner for use.
Step 5
In a bowl, combine the chopped clam meat with chili powder, minced garlic, chopped scallions, soy sauce (or ‘yeondu’), and a pinch of black pepper. Gently mix by hand until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the natural flavors.
Step 6
Spoon the seasoned clam mixture evenly into the cleaned clam shells. Fill them generously but avoid overfilling so they look neat.
Step 7
Top the clam mixture in each shell with a small amount of finely diced onion. The onion’s sweetness will complement the clam’s flavor.
Step 8
1. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 30 minutes, or until the clam meat is cooked through and slightly golden. 2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the baked clams. 3. Return to the oven or an air fryer for another 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley for a beautiful finish. Your Cheesy Baked Clams are ready to serve!
