Steamed Clams with Kazakh Flair

Ingredients

In this Kazakh adaptation, the original Japanese dish of Asari no sakemushi is transformed by incorporating traditional Kazakh spices such as cumin, paprika, and coriander. These spices infuse the dish with a distinct Kazakh flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the delicate sweetness of the clams. Additionally, the dish is served in its own flavorful broth, allowing the clams to soak up the aromatic flavors and creating a more robust and satisfying culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Asari no sakemushi, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh clams 2 pounds (900g) fresh clams
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit or sand. Discard any clams with cracked shells or that do not close when tapped.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the cumin, paprika, and coriander to the pot, and stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. 4.
   Pour in the water and bring it to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Add the clams to the pot and cover with a lid. Steam the clams for about 5-7 minutes, or until they have opened.
6. 6.
   Discard any clams that have not opened after steaming.
7. 7.
   Season the broth with salt to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the steamed clams in bowls, ladling the flavorful broth over them.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Clams — Make sure to thoroughly rinse the clams to remove any sand or grit. Discard any clams with cracked shells or that do not close when tapped.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
• Serve the steamed clams with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
• For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the clams before serving.
• If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley or dill.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can add diced potatoes or vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the pot while steaming the clams.

Serving advice

Serve the steamed clams with the flavorful broth in individual bowls, making sure to ladle plenty of broth over the clams. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal. Accompany the dish with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the delicious broth.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the dish, arrange the steamed clams in a shallow serving dish, making sure to pour the flavorful broth over them. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice. The vibrant colors of the spices and the pale shells of the clams will create an enticing visual contrast.