Wampanoag Clam Pie
A hearty Wampanoag clam pie featuring tender clams, savory pork, and flaky crust, blending rich flavors perfect for seafood lovers and traditional comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground clams, beaten eggs, chopped onion, cracker crumbs, and clam juice in a bowl.
- Add all of the pork drippings and stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, then incorporate butter into the mixture.
- Line a 10-inch pie plate with a bottom crust.
- Sprinkle half of the browned salt pork scraps on the bottom of the crust.
- Pour the clam mixture over the pork scraps.
- Top with the remaining salt pork scraps.
- Cover with the second crust and seal the edges.
- Bake until golden brown and bubbly, approximately 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade clam juice if available. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the salt pork with diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. When mixing, ensure the clams are well-drained to prevent excess moisture. You can also experiment with spices like Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam pie warm, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside Ada'S Cajun Beans for a heartier feast. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a light lager complements the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wampanoag Clam Pie contains roughly 238 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% 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
Can I use fresh clams instead of ground clams?
Yes, you can use fresh clams! Just steam them open, remove the meat, and chop finely. Ensure to reserve the clam juice for the recipe, adjusting the quantity as needed to match the liquid requirement.
What can I substitute for salt pork?
If salt pork is not available, you can use bacon or pancetta for a similar flavor profile. Cook them until crispy and use the rendered fat in place of butter for added richness.
How do I know when the clam pie is done baking?
The clam pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. You can also insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
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).