Xarém

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 2
Traditional Portuguese Xarém Recipe
in Main

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

60 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 kg medium clams ( in the shell . 15-18 shelled . ) or 1 kg mussels ( in the shell . 15-18 shelled . )
100 g smoked bacon
100 g cured ham
100 g hard pork sausage
200 g cornmeal
50 ml white wine
salt and pepper
crouton ( optional for garnish )
parsley , chopped ( optional for garnish )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
350
Sugar
2g
Fat
10g
Xarém is a traditional Portuguese dish made of cornmeal and mollusks, usually clams or mussels, along with smoked or cured pork. It has been enjoyed for centuries, especially in the southern regions of Portugal, where it is considered a comfort food. This recipe is easy to make, and with the addition of crusty bread, it can make a hearty meal. The combination of flavors, with the saltiness from the pork and the briny taste of the mollusks, creates a unique and satisfying dish that is sure to delight anyone who loves seafood and comfort food.

Instructions

1.Place the clams in a bowl with cold water and some salt.
2.Remove the clams from the water and scrub them clean. If you're using mussels, remove the beards and discard any broken ones.
3.In a pot, cook the bacon, ham, and sausage on medium-high heat until brown. Remove the meats but leave the fat in the pot.
4.Add the cornmeal to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
5.Add the white wine and enough water to make a thick paste. Reduce the heat and let the cornmeal cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6.Add the clams and some more water if needed. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the clams open, about 5-10 minutes.
7.Remove the clams from the pot. Discard any that don't open. Add the meats back to the pot and stir. Serve the Xarém hot, with some croutons and chopped parsley on top (optional).

PROS

This dish is a traditional Portuguese staple, full of flavor, and easy to make.
Perfect for any seafood lover.

The use of cornmeal as the base is a unique twist on the classic clam chowder.

CONS

This dish relies heavily on seafood and pork, which may not be for everyone.

Cornmeal takes a long time to cook, and attention is required to prevent clumps from forming.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Clams are low in fat and calories and high in protein and many essential minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Cornmeal is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and fiber but also high in carbohydrates. Pork, in moderation, can provide essential nutrients such as protein, zinc, and vitamin B12.

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