Extra Clams

Extra Clams in US Restaurants:

Extra clams are a steamed appetizer commonly found in American seafood restaurants. They're typically served with garlic, butter, herbs, and sometimes bacon.

Here's what you need to know about them:

Origin:

- This East Coast dish has roots in Italian-American culinary traditions.

- It's often associated with cities like Boston and New York.

Preparation:

- Fresh clams are steamed in butter, garlic, and broth until just cooked.

- The natural juices from the clams add flavor to the broth.

- Herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary are often added for aroma.

- Some restaurants may also include bacon for extra flavor and texture.

Variations:

- Clams Casino: A classic New England dish featuring clams baked in a buttery sauce with bread crumbs, herbs and often saffron.

- Spicy Clams: For those who love heat, this version adds chili flakes or peppers to the broth.

- Garlic Butter Clams: The simplest preparation, featuring clams steamed in butter with lots of garlic.

What to expect:

- Usually served with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious broth.

- A plate of extra clams usually contains around 6-8 clams.

- The flavor is rich and briny, with a hint of garlic and butter.

Tips:

- Consider ordering a side of sourdough bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

- Be sure to try different versions of the dish to find your favorite.

- Many restaurants offer clam specials on certain nights of the week.