PORTUGUESE CLAMS STEW with chorizo and white wine sauce

Name: PORTUGUESE CLAMS STEW with chorizo and white wine sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh clams, cleaned; 8 ounces chorizo, sliced; 1 cup white wine; 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

A delightful combination of fresh clams and spicy chorizo, simmered in a rich white wine sauce, perfect for a cozy meal.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-11T19:25:06.251Z

This Portuguese Clams Stew is a traditional dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of coastal cuisine. The combination of tender clams and smoky chorizo, all brought together with a fragrant white wine sauce, makes it a dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect blend of briny clams and spicy chorizo.
Rich, aromatic sauce that enhances the flavors beautifully.
A comforting dish that's great for sharing with friends and family.

      

Discover the Flavors of Portugal

Portuguese cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. This Portuguese Clams Stew combines the ocean's bounty with the earthy spice of chorizo, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of character. The combination of fresh clams and spicy sausage offers a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

The use of white wine in this stew not only adds depth but also enhances the natural sweetness of the clams. As the clams cook, they release their briny juices, which meld beautifully with the wine and spices, resulting in a sauce that you’ll want to soak up with crusty bread. This stew is a true representation of the coastal regions of Portugal, where seafood is a staple.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this clams stew is an excellent choice. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for colder weather, and the vibrant flavors can transport you to a warm seaside locale with each bite. The dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to serve at special occasions.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. The base recipe is versatile, allowing you to incorporate seasonal ingredients, making it a dish you can enjoy year-round.

Tips for Cooking Clams

When preparing clams, freshness is key. Look for clams that are tightly closed, indicating they are alive and fresh. If you find any that are open, gently tap them; if they don’t close, it's best to discard them. Proper cleaning is also essential to ensure a pleasant eating experience. Soak clams in salted water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to expel any sand.

Cooking clams can be a quick process, so be sure to keep an eye on them while they steam. Overcooking can result in rubbery texture, which is not what you want in a delicate dish like this stew. As soon as the clams open, they are ready to serve, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds fresh clams, cleaned
8 ounces chorizo, sliced
1 cup white wine
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for the best experience.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté Chorizo

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Cook Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add Wine and Spices

Pour in the white wine, adding paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Add Clams

Carefully add the cleaned clams to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the clams have opened.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Portuguese Clams Stew with friends or family!

Serving Suggestions

This Portuguese Clams Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. A side salad or roasted vegetables can complement the meal and add a fresh crunch. For a more traditional experience, consider serving it with a chilled glass of Portuguese white wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

For a heartier meal, you can also serve this stew over a bed of rice or alongside some fluffy couscous. This will allow you to enjoy the rich sauce while adding a filling component to your meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stew can be kept for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the clams to become tough.

While it's best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can also freeze the stew for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next time you enjoy it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are thawed and cleaned properly before use.

→ What type of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

→ How do I know when the clams are cooked?

Clams are done when they open up. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the broth and add clams just before serving.