Bulhao Pato Clams
A flavorful Portuguese dish featuring fresh clams cooked in garlic, olive oil, and herbs, perfect for seafood lovers and suitable for sharing as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dispose clams in a recipient and cover with cool water and salt for 2 to 4 hours to remove sand.
- In a pan, mix olive oil and crushed garlic.
- Cook until lightly browned.
- Remove from heat and add the washed clams.
- Cover the pan and let the clams open.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and slices of lemon.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic. If fresh clams are unavailable, you can use canned clams, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Pair this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can substitute for parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bulhao Pato Clams warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine and a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a more hearty meal, consider serving alongside Mediterranean recipes like a warm salad of grilled shrimp, scallops and endive.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the clams in a pan over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the clams tough. Always check for any clams that may not have opened during cooking and discard them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bulhao Pato Clams contains roughly 243 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (106% of the Daily Value) and potassium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1762mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my clams are fresh?
Fresh clams should be tightly closed or close when tapped. If any clams remain open after cooking, they should be discarded as they may not be safe to eat. Always buy clams from a reputable source.
Can I use other types of shellfish in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a mix of shellfish such as mussels or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different shellfish may open at different rates. This recipe can also serve as a base for a zarzuela, a delicious shellfish stew.
What should I serve with Bulhao Pato Clams?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. You can also serve it alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a more robust option, consider serving it with pasta or rice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).