Crumb-Topped Clams

Crumb-Topped Clams are a beloved tradition in many families, especially during festive occasions like Christmas Eve. This simple yet delicious dish is always a hit and is sure to impress your guests. Baked clams are not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh littleneck clams, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. This recipe allows you to savor the taste of the sea with a crispy, golden crumb topping. Serve these delectable clams with lemon wedges to add a tangy touch. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this crowd-pleasing appetizer!

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds kosher salt
• 2 dozen fresh littleneck clams
• ½ cup dry bread crumbs
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• Dash of pepper
• 1 tablespoon panko (Japanese) bread crumbs
• Lemon wedges

PREPARATIONS:

1. Spread kosher salt into an ovenproof metal serving platter or a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
2. Shuck the clams, leaving the clams and juices in the bottom shells.
3. Arrange the shucked clams on the prepared platter, ensuring the juices are divided among the shells.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the dry bread crumbs, chicken broth, minced parsley, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and pepper.
5. Spoon the bread crumb mixture over the clams, evenly distributing it among the shells.
6. Sprinkle the crumb-topped clams with panko (Japanese) bread crumbs.
7. Broil the clams 4-6 inches from the heat source for 6-8 minutes or until the clams are firm and the crumb mixture is crisp and golden brown.
8. Serve the Crumb-Topped Clams immediately with lemon wedges.

YIELD: 2 dozen clams

PREP TIME: 35 minutes BROIL TIME: 10 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Use fresh littleneck clams for the best flavor and texture.
• Make sure to shuck the clams carefully, keeping the clams and their juices in the bottom shells.
• Adjust the amount of garlic, herbs, and spices according to your taste preference.
• Serve the Crumb-Topped Clams immediately after broiling to enjoy them at their best.

TIPS:

• To make shucking easier, place the clams in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before shucking.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crumb mixture.
• Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as seasoned or Italian breadcrumbs, to add additional flavor to the dish.

In conclusion, Crumb-Topped Clams are a delightful and beloved dish that adds a touch of elegance to any festive gathering, particularly during Christmas Eve. This recipe showcases the natural flavors of fresh littleneck clams, complemented by a savory crumb topping. The combination of breadcrumbs, chicken broth, parsley, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and pepper creates a harmonious blend of flavors that enhances the taste of the clams.

To prepare this dish, start by spreading kosher salt in an ovenproof serving platter or baking pan. Carefully shuck the fresh littleneck clams, ensuring to leave the clams and their juices in the bottom shells. Arrange the shucked clams on the prepared platter and divide the juices among the shells.

In a small bowl, combine the dry breadcrumbs, chicken broth, minced parsley, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and pepper. Spoon this flavorful mixture over the clams, ensuring an even distribution among the shells. Sprinkle panko (Japanese) breadcrumbs over the top for an extra crunch.

Broil the clams until they become firm and the crumb topping turns golden brown and crispy. Serve the Crumb-Topped Clams immediately with lemon wedges to add a refreshing, tangy element.

When making this recipe, it’s essential to use fresh littleneck clams for the best taste. Take care while shucking the clams to keep them and their juices intact. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, herbs, and spices to suit your personal preferences. The dish can be spiced up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

These Crumb-Topped Clams make for an impressive appetizer or addition to a seafood feast. Enjoy them as a special treat during the holiday season or any time you want to savor the flavors of the sea. So gather your ingredients, shuck those clams, and indulge in this delectable dish that will surely please both seafood lovers and holiday revelers alike.