Clams lucky twice casino (lucky-twice-online.com) is a classic seafood dish that hails from the East Coast of the United States, particularly associated with Rhode Island. This dish combines fresh clams with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, bacon, and herbs, creating a delightful appetizer that is both rich in flavor and texture. In this report, we will explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making the perfect Clams Casino.
Ingredients
To prepare Clams Casino, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh clams: 12 large clams (littleneck or cherrystone are ideal)
- Bacon: 4 slices, chopped
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, preferably Italian-style for added flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Shallots: 1, finely chopped
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (fresh is best)
- Bell pepper: 1 small, finely chopped (red or green)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated (optional)
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your clams cook evenly and the topping becomes crispy.
- Prepare the Clams: Rinse the clams under cold water to remove any sand or debris. Place them in a large pot with a bit of water, cover, and steam them over medium heat until they open up, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open. Once cooked, remove the clams from their shells and chop the meat roughly. Reserve the half shells for baking.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet. Add the minced garlic, shallots, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped clam meat, cooked bacon, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Stuff the Clams: Spoon the filling generously into each clam shell, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
- Bake the Clams: Place the stuffed clams on a baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter and a bit of olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the clams from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Clams Casino
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh clams for the best flavor. If possible, buy them the same day you plan to cook.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Some recipes include a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
- Serving Suggestions: Clams Casino can be served with lemon wedges and a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
In conclusion, Clams Casino is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the natural sweetness of clams. With its delicious combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at your dining table.