Easy Clam Soup

It has been cold but sunny here in Vancouver, BC these past couple of days. The weather forecast is going to be the same the next few days. It is great to be outside and enjoying the sun after few months of gloomy and rainy weather. These were my thoughts when my husband and I were doing our grocery shopping this morning. For lunch, I bought some dim sums and fresh clams.  We haven’t had clam soup for a long time, so I made some.

This clam soup recipe is very easy to make.  In 15 minutes, you have a tasty and flavorful soup to enjoy. Yummy 😀

Cooking Tips for Perfect Clam Soup

Getting the perfect clam soup is all about timing and technique. First, make sure to clean the clams properly. Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to purge any sand or grit. You can add a bit of cornmeal to the water, which some believe helps the clams expel more sand. When cooking, avoid boiling the soup too vigorously. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the clams. Add the clams towards the end of the cooking process. They only need about five to seven minutes to cook through, and they will open up when they are done. If any clams remain closed after cooking, it’s best to discard them. For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing some garlic and onions in olive oil before adding the broth and clams.

Ingredient Notes

Choosing the right ingredients can elevate your clam soup. Fresh clams are ideal, so if you can, visit your local fish market. Look for clams that are tightly closed or close when tapped. This indicates they are fresh. You can use various types of clams such as Manila, littleneck, or even cherrystone, each offering a unique flavor. As for the broth, homemade is always the best option, but if you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought seafood or vegetable broth will work just fine. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add brightness to the soup. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Don’t forget about the veggies; adding diced potatoes or carrots can enhance the soup’s texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Clam soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make for a complete meal. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. Garlic bread or a simple baguette are great choices. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup nicely. For a more substantial meal, consider serving the soup alongside some grilled seafood or a seafood pasta dish. A glass of white wine, particularly a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with clam soup, enhancing the seafood flavors. If you’re serving this for a gathering, consider making a larger batch and serving it in a big pot for a family-style dinner. It invites everyone to help themselves and adds to the cozy atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for manila clams?

If you can’t find manila clams, look for littleneck clams or even cockles as good alternatives. Just make sure they are fresh for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover clam soup?

Store any leftover clam soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just remember that clams can become tough when reheated, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

Can I make clam soup ahead of time?

While you can prepare the broth and ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to add the clams just before serving. This keeps them tender and prevents them from overcooking.

What goes well with clam soup?

Serve clam soup with some crusty bread for dipping or a light salad on the side. A glass of white wine also pairs beautifully with the flavors of the soup.

What mistakes should I avoid when making clam soup?

One common mistake is boiling the soup too hard, which can make the clams tough. Also, skipping the cleaning step can leave sand in your soup, so make sure to soak the clams properly.

Easy Clam Soup

Liza Agbanlog

Enjoy a bowl of easy clam soup that's bursting with fresh flavors from ginger and cilantro. It's light, comforting, and comes together in no time.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Filipino

Servings 2 -3 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 775 g 27 1/3 oz manila clams, scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce optional
• 1 thumb-sized ginger peeled and sliced into thin strips
• ¼ cup cooking wine
• 2 cups water
• Chopped cilantro

Instructions

 

• Heat the oil in a medium size pot. Add the ginger and sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add the clams and wine; stir for 1 minute.
• Add water and fish sauce, if using; cover and cook until the clams begin to open, about 2-3 minutes.
• Season to taste. Discard any clams that do not open. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
• Transfer to a serving bowl and serve.
• Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 500mg

Keyword clam soup, comfort food, easy recipe, quick meal, seafood

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