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 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This delectable Portuguese Clams Stew with chorizo and white wine sauce is a vibrant dish that brings the taste of the sea to your table. Perfectly seasoned clams simmered with aromatic ingredients create a delightful flavor experience.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-11T15:57:05.048Z

Immerse yourself in the flavors of coastal Portugal with this rich and hearty clam stew. The combination of fresh clams, spicy chorizo, and aromatic white wine creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of briny clams and spicy chorizo.
A rich, fragrant broth that invites you to savor every bite.
Ideal for a cozy dinner or when entertaining guests.

      

The Heart of Portuguese Cuisine

Portuguese cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by centuries of maritime tradition and cultural exchange. At the heart of many dishes is seafood, particularly shellfish, which plays a crucial role in regional recipes. The Portuguese Clams Stew with chorizo and white wine sauce epitomizes this tradition, combining fresh clams with the robust flavors of chorizo, making it a comforting yet exciting meal. This dish not only showcases the bounty of the sea but also reflects the warmth of Portuguese hospitality.

The stewing method allows the clams to release their briny essence into the broth, enhancing the overall flavor profile. With a splash of dry white wine and aromatic herbs, the dish transforms into a fragrant experience that is both satisfying and invigorating. Whether served on a chilly evening or during a festive gathering, this stew promises to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

When preparing the Portuguese Clams Stew, selecting the freshest ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. Look for clams that are tightly closed and smell like the sea. Fresh chorizo, whether spicy or mild, adds depth to the broth, so choose a quality brand that suits your taste preferences. The use of dry white wine not only adds acidity but also enhances the overall richness of the stew, making it essential for a successful dish.

In addition to clams and chorizo, the aromatic combination of onions and garlic forms the foundation of the stew. These ingredients release their natural sweetness during cooking, perfectly complementing the briny clams. Diced tomatoes and smoked paprika contribute a depth of flavor and a beautiful color, making this dish visually appealing as well as delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This Portuguese Clams Stew is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. For a casual dinner, serve it directly from the pot with crusty bread on the side, allowing guests to soak up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, for a more formal presentation, ladle the stew into individual bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Vinho Verde or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dining experience. The acidity of the wine complements the stew's richness, making every bite more enjoyable. Consider serving a light salad as a starter to balance the meal, and finish with a Portuguese dessert like Pastéis de Nata for a sweet conclusion.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds fresh clams, cleaned
8 ounces chorizo, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Chorizo and Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo slices and cook until they are browned and crispy. Remove the chorizo and set aside, leaving the oil in the pot.

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Liquids and Clams

Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, add the cleaned clams to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the clams open up.

Finish and Serve

Return the cooked chorizo to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Portuguese Clams Stew!

Enjoy!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Portuguese Clams Stew, storing it properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

While it's tempting to reheat in the microwave, doing so can lead to rubbery clams and uneven heating. Instead, opt for the stovetop method for the best results. Enjoy the stew on its own or serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a hearty meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This Portuguese Clams Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Clams are an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like iron and zinc. They are low in calories and high in flavor, making them a healthy choice for seafood lovers. The addition of chorizo brings some fat and spice, complementing the lean protein from the clams.

The vegetables used in the stew, including onions and garlic, contribute to the overall health benefits, providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, this dish can be a nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan.

Variations to Try

While the traditional version of Portuguese Clams Stew is delightful, feel free to experiment with variations that suit your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier chorizo. You can also throw in other seafood, such as shrimp or mussels, to create a mixed seafood stew that highlights a variety of flavors.

Vegetarians can enjoy a similar experience by substituting clams with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas, maintaining the rich broth with vegetable stock. This flexibility makes the stew a fantastic base recipe that can be adjusted to accommodate different dietary preferences while still delivering a delicious meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

→ How do I know when the clams are cooked?

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

→ Can I substitute chorizo with another type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any spicy sausage, but chorizo gives a unique flavor that is integral to this dish.