Zesty Clams in Tomato Tango
Our "Zesty Clams in Tomato Tango" is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of the vibrant and delicious flavors that come together to create culinary magic. Whether you're enjoying it as an appetizer or a main course, this dish promises a delightful rendezvous of taste that will leave you craving an encore. It's the perfect way to add a touch of zest to your dining experience and infuse your day with the lively spirit of a tomato tango.... CHA, CHA, CHA!
INGREDIENTS:
28 little neck clams, scrubbed
The juice of 2 fresh limes
½ stick salted butter, cut into pieces
2 large shallots, minced
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 small jalapeño pepper, seeds removed, minced
1 tablespoon ground chili powder
½ teaspoon ground oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 bottle of Mexican beer
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 can chickpeas, rinsed
1 small loaf of crusty bread, sliced
4 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
Lime wedges (for serving)
1 shot of tequila, for you
PREPARATION:
Prepare a grill for medium, indirect heat. Place a large cast-iron skillet on grill over direct heat and melt 4 Tbsp. butter in skillet. Add shallots, jalapeño and garlic and cook, stirring often, until soft. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring often, until paste darkens to a rich brick-red color. Add beer and tomatoes.
Bring to a boil and cook until beer is reduced nearly by half and no longer smells boozy. Stir in chickpeas and chili powder and oregano, then add clams. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until clams have opened; this could take from 5–10 minutes depending on size of clams and the heat level. Remove from heat; discard any clams that don’t open.
Stir in lime juice and remaining 2 Tbsp. butter.
While the clams are cooking on the grill, drizzle bread with oil and season lightly with salt. Grill until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer toast to plates and spoon clam mixture over; top with cilantro. Serve immediately.
Get ready for a tantalizing taste adventure with our "Zesty Clams in Tomato Tango." This dish is a flavorful fiesta that combines the briny richness of clams with the vibrant tanginess of tomatoes in a dance of culinary delight.
Picture a bowl filled with succulent clams, each one bathed in a zesty tomato sauce that's as bold as it is lively. The tomatoes, bursting with sweet and savory flavors, provide the perfect backdrop for the tender clams to shine. As you savor each bite, you'll experience a harmonious tango of tastes that will make your taste buds dance.
