Authentic Thai Clam Curry: A Flavorful Culinary Adventure

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you an exquisite dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand: Thai Clam Curry. This recipe combines the delicate sweetness of clams with the bold and aromatic spices typical of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this dish promises a delightful fusion of flavors that is both simple and elegant.

Thai clam curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich coconut milk base paired with the zest of lemongrass and the warmth of ginger creates a symphony of taste and aroma that is hard to resist. As you embark on this culinary journey, my aim is to inspire you to embrace the art of cooking, making it stylish, creative, and fun. Let’s dive into crafting this delicious, niche cuisine together!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

This Thai clam curry is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly nutritious. Clams are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. The use of fresh herbs and spices provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish both delicious and healthy.

Unique Features

What sets this recipe apart is its authenticity and the balance of flavors. The use of traditional Thai ingredients such as fish sauce, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai basil ensures that each bite is as close to the real thing as you can get without hopping on a plane. Moreover, it’s a versatile recipe that allows for personal touches and adjustments to suit your palate.

Ingredients for Thai Clam Curry

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg fresh clams, cleaned and scrubbed
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced

Optional Add-ins

• 1 red chili, sliced (for extra heat)
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by cleaning the clams thoroughly under cold running water. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped.
2. Prepare your aromatics: mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the onion. Smash the lemongrass to release its oils.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the red curry paste and cook for another minute to release its flavors.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and add the kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Once simmering, add the clams to the pot. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened up.
6. Stir in the Thai basil leaves, lime juice, and palm sugar, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
7. Discard any clams that did not open during cooking.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

For a more intense flavor, let the curry simmer gently before adding the clams. This allows the spices and herbs to infuse the coconut milk fully. Additionally, always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end to ensure the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the clams, as this can make them tough and chewy. It’s important to watch them closely and remove them as soon as they open. Also, be cautious with the amount of salt since the fish sauce already adds a salty element to the dish.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

A serving of Thai clam curry contains approximately 350 calories, with a balanced macronutrient profile of 20g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 25g fats. The fats come primarily from the coconut milk, providing healthy medium-chain triglycerides.

Health Benefits

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lime, iron from the clams, and antioxidants from the fresh herbs. It’s a heart-healthy option due to the omega-3 fatty acids in clams, which are known to reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of milk for a richer texture. If you’re following a low-sodium diet, reduce the amount of fish sauce and adjust with extra lime juice for flavor.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with different types of curry paste to alter the flavor profile. Green curry paste will give a fresher, herbaceous taste, while yellow curry paste offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor. Add vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for additional texture and nutrients.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store any leftover Thai clam curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Serving Ideas

Serve this curry over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a light Thai-inspired salad or fresh spring rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Thai clam curry is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine into your home with ease and sophistication. The combination of fresh clams with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk creates a meal that is both comforting and exotic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Embrace the art of cooking with Recipes in Style and bring the joy of delicious, niche cuisine into your home. Bon Appétit!

Authentic Thai Clam Curry: A Flavorful Culinary Adventure

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A rich and aromatic Thai clam curry featuring sweet fresh clams, coconut milk, and traditional Thai spices for a warming, exotic experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 kg fresh clams, cleaned and scrubbed
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Clean the clams thoroughly under cold running water. Discard any clams that remain open after tapping.
2. Mince garlic, grate ginger, slice onion, and smash lemongrass to release its aroma.
3. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
4. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Stir in red curry paste and cook for another minute.
6. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. Bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Add clams, cover, and cook for 5–7 minutes until clams open.
8. Stir in Thai basil, lime juice, and palm sugar. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Discard any unopened clams and serve immediately.

Notes

For deeper flavor, simmer the curry base a few extra minutes before adding clams. Avoid overcooking the clams to keep them tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: clam curry, Thai curry, seafood, coconut milk, spicy Thai dish