Best Easy Stir Fried Clams with Black Bean Recipe

Briny stir-fried clams with black bean sauce are a quick, protein-rich seafood dish. A fresh, family dinner with bold, savory Cantonese flavor.

Cook 20 min Difficulty NORMAL 200 kcal
#seafood #high protein #quick family dinner #Cantonese flavor
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh clams 2 lbs
  • red bell pepper 0.5 cup
  • yellow onion 0.5 cup
  • scallions 0.25 cup
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • fermented black beans 3 tbsp
  • soy sauce 1.5 tbsp
  • oyster sauce 1 tbsp
  • dry sherry 1 tbsp
  • sugar 1 tsp
  • white pepper 0.25 tsp
  • sesame oil 1 tsp
  • neutral cooking oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 13 g 26%
Protein 19 g 38%
Fat 7 g 32%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the clams in salted cold water for 20 minutes so they purge sand, then scrub the shells clean and drain thoroughly.

  2. 2

    Chop the red bell pepper, yellow onion, and scallions into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.

  3. 3

    Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. When hot, add neutral cooking oil. Once the oil shimmers, add garlic, fermented black beans, and white pepper. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add onions and bell pepper. Stir-fry on high heat for 1-2 minutes until starting to soften but still crisp.

  5. 5

    Add the drained clams, soy sauce, oyster sauce, dry sherry, and sugar. Stir and cover with a lid. Let steam on high heat for 3-4 minutes, or until clams just open, shaking pan occasionally.

  6. 6

    Remove the lid as soon as most clams open. Quickly toss in the scallions and finish with sesame oil. Stir to combine for another 30 seconds, then immediately serve hot to preserve the clams’ tenderness.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The defining ingredient is fresh clams. Their natural briny flavor is balanced by the savory depth of fermented black beans, which are essential for the classic Cantonese taste in this dish. Together, they deliver the signature flavor and texture of this stir-fry.
Q. How do I ensure my clams don't turn rubbery?
To keep clams tender, use high heat and watch closely as they cook. Once most of the shells have opened—usually within 3-4 minutes of steaming—remove from heat immediately. Overcooking is a common cause of rubbery clams, so serve promptly for best texture.
Q. What gives the sauce its savory, bold profile?
The sauce’s bold, complex flavor comes from a combination of fermented black beans, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. These seasonings together create a deep umami character, while dry sherry adds a subtle aromatic note.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving provide?
Each serving contains about 200 kcal and offers a generous 19g of protein, making this dish both satisfying and protein-rich. Approximately 38% of calories come from protein, 26% from carbohydrates, and 32% from fat.
AI 채팅 아이콘