Savory Stir-Fried White Clams
Peppers
A quick and fragrant stir-fry of fresh white clams tossed with garlic, scallions, and crisp bell peppers in a savory oyster sauce reduction.
While clams are frequently simmered in light soups, stir-frying them brings out a wonderful savory depth and a delightful contrast of textures. Infused with aromatic garlic, cooking wine, and crisp bell peppers, this quick dish makes for a fantastic appetizer or weeknight seafood treat.
Ingredients
- 500 g white clams
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 stalks scallions
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 tbsp cooking wine
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 drops sesame oil
- to taste salt
- as needed cooking oil
Instructions
- 1Sauté aromatics
Heat oil in a wok and add minced garlic and scallions, sautéing until fragrant and lightly golden.
Tip: Ensure the oil is adequately heated before adding the garlic to release maximum aroma without burning it. - 2Add white clams
Introduce the prepared white clams directly into the wok with the sautéed garlic and oil, tossing them continuously to combine.
Tip: Keep the heat high to ensure an even and quick stir-fry process. - 3Pour cooking wine
Drizzle cooking wine over the swirling clams while continuously stir-frying to enhance flavor and eliminate any unwanted fishy odors.
Tip: Pour the wine along the inner rim of the hot wok so it vaporizes instantly and coats the clams evenly. - 4Braise the clams
Cover the wok tightly with a lid to allow the clams to steam and braise in their own juices and wine mixture until they open up.
Tip: Do not leave covered for too long to prevent the clams from becoming rubbery. - 5Season with oyster sauce
Pour oyster sauce directly into the wok over the newly opened clams, adding a rich umami depth.
Tip: Adjust the amount of oyster sauce according to personal taste since clams naturally carry sea saltiness. - 6Add green and red peppers
Add sliced green and red peppers directly into the wok with the opened clams, tossing everything together to combine and infuse the flavors.
Tip: Add the peppers towards the end so they retain their crisp texture and vibrant color. - 7Garnish with scallions and finish
Sprinkle chopped scallions over the stir-fried clams in the wok, add two drops of sesame oil, give it a final toss, and plate up ready to eat.
Tip: A couple of drops of sesame oil added right at the end enhances the aroma significantly.
