Warm your soul with the comforting flavors of Clam Stew—a hearty blend of tender clams, creamy broth, and wholesome vegetables, simmered to perfection. Perfect for chilly nights or any time you crave a taste of the sea, this classic dish brings the richness of coastal cuisine right to your table. Dive into a bowl of savory, satisfying goodness that feels like a hug in every bite!
If you love seafood recipes that feel elegant but are surprisingly easy to prepare, this white wine clam stew is going to become one of your favorites. Inspired by Mediterranean coastal cuisine, this dish highlights fresh clams simmered in a fragrant broth of garlic, onions, white wine, herbs, and a gentle kick of jalapeño.
Clam stew has deep roots in coastal regions across Europe, particularly in Spain, Italy, and Portugal, where fishermen traditionally cooked shellfish in simple broths using olive oil, wine, and herbs. This version leans Mediterranean with fresh parsley, garlic, and olive oil, while adding a modern twist of jalapeño for subtle heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light yet deeply flavorful
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Naturally high in protein and iron
- Dairy-free and gluten-free (skip bread or use GF bread)
- Perfect for entertaining or cozy weeknight dinners
- Low in net carbs (keto-friendly without bread)
This spicy clam stew is ideal for your healthy seafood collection on Simply Delicious Bites, Rena. It fits beautifully into your Mediterranean and high-protein recipe categories.
Grocery Shopping List
- 3 lbs fresh littleneck clams
- 1 small yellow onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 fresh jalapeño
- Fresh parsley
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup seafood or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon
- Crusty baguette
- Salt & black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Tongs
- Colander (for rinsing clams)
Flavorful Spicy Garlic White Wine Clam Stew
Description
I make this easy, warm stew all the time. It's a favorite because of its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. When making clam stew, using fresh clams is key. Aromatics like onion and thyme add a lot of flavor. Look for clams that are just picked. They taste better and feel nicer in your mouth. Serve the stew with oyster crackers or crusty bread. They soak up the broth well. For storage, refrigerate it for 3-4 days or freeze it longer. Always follow food safety and storage tips.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Clean the Clams:
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Soak clams in cold salted water for 15–20 minutes to remove sand. Rinse thoroughly and discard any cracked or open clams that do not close when tapped.
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Build the Flavor Base:
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In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add Heat & Deglaze:
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Stir in jalapeño slices. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Create the Broth:
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Add seafood broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Cook the Clams:
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Add clams, cover, and steam for 6–8 minutes until clams open. Discard any unopened clams.
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Finish the Stew:
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Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve:
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Ladle into bowls and serve with toasted baguette for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Cholesterol 45mg15%
- Sodium 620mg26%
- Potassium 520mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 28g57%
- Vitamin A 10 IU
- Vitamin C 15 mg
- Calcium 5 mg
- Iron 10 mg
- Magnesium 60 mg
- Net Carb 11g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a healthier version, opt for a clear broth base, reduce the butter, and include more vegetables. Replace french fries with cooked rice.
Optional: Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a heartier meal.
For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter at the end — or keep it lighter and drizzle with high-quality olive oil before serving. If you prefer more broth, increase seafood stock to 1½ cups.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned clams?
Fresh clams are best for texture and flavor, but canned can work in a pinch. Add them at the end and simmer briefly.
2. How do I know clams are fresh?
They should be tightly closed or close when tapped.
3. Can I make this without wine?
Yes. Substitute additional seafood broth plus 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
4. Is this recipe keto?
Yes, without the bread. It’s naturally low in net carbs.
5. Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Shrimp or mussels pair beautifully in this stew.
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