Description
A traditional coastal feast featuring clams, seafood, potatoes, and corn, cooked together in a large pot for a flavorful and hearty steamed meal perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 2 pounds clams
- 1 pound mussels (optional)
Vegetables & Starch
- 4 ears corn, halved
- 1 pound small potatoes
Other
- 1/2 pound sausage (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 cups water or broth
Instructions
- Clean the Seafood: Thoroughly clean the clams and mussels under cold running water to remove any grit or sand.
- Boil Base Liquid: In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a rolling boil.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the small potatoes to the boiling liquid and cook for 10 minutes to ensure they start softening.
- Add Corn and Sausage: Add the halved ears of corn and optional sausage to the pot, then cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Steam Seafood: Add the cleaned clams and mussels on top, cover the pot with a lid, and steam for 8 to 10 minutes until all the shells open.
- Discard Unopened Shells: Remove the pot from heat and discard any clams or mussels that have not opened, as these may not be safe to eat.
- Serve: Transfer the clam bake to a serving platter and serve hot with melted butter and lemon wedges for squeezing.
Notes
- This recipe is traditionally associated with coastal New England gatherings and celebrations.
- You can customize your clam bake by including lobster or shrimp for more variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: American
