As the sun sets on another busy day, I find myself yearning for a meal that warms both the heart and the belly. That’s when my thoughts drift to this Portuguese Clams Stew with Chorizo. Picture this: a pot bubbling with the sweetness of freshly opened clams, perfectly paired with the smoky richness of chorizo. The aroma fills my kitchen, wrapping me in a familiar hug of comfort and nostalgia.

This delightful stew not only showcases the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine but also pleases the senses with its inviting fragrance and rich, hearty texture. It’s the kind of dish that transports you to a cozy seaside restaurant, where every spoonful feels like a comforting embrace. Simple enough to make on a weeknight yet impressive enough to share with friends, this stew is a true crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into the delightful depths of this dish and bring a little piece of Portugal to your table!

Why is this Portuguese Clams Stew a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This stew brings together tender clams and smoky chorizo, creating a taste experience that’s rich and satisfying.

Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish without stress.

Perfectly Hearty: It’s a fulfilling meal that warms you from the inside out—ideal for cozy evenings with loved ones.

Cultural Delight: Enjoy a dish steeped in Portuguese tradition, showcasing a unique blend of seafood and spices.

Pair it Right: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of flavor, enhancing your dining experience!

Portuguese Clams Stew Ingredients

For the Stew

Clams – Fresh live clams are ideal for a seafood base; canned or frozen can be used as an alternative.
Chorizo – Adds smoky depth; substitute with any sausage to adjust flavors if desired.
Onion – The aromatic base; yellow or white onion works well here.
Garlic – Fresh garlic brings out complex flavors; use powder in a pinch.
White Wine – Provides acidity and depth; Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice; broth can substitute for a non-alcoholic option.

For Garnishing

Cilantro – Offers a fresh brightness; parsley can be a fine substitute if needed.

How to Make Portuguese Clams Stew

Clean the Clams: Start by discarding any damaged clams. Rinse the remaining clams thoroughly in cold water and then soak them in salted water for 2-3 hours to help expel any sand.
Prepare Onion and Garlic Sauce: In a large skillet, sauté finely sliced onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they’re translucent and fragrant. Blend this mixture until smooth for a rich base.
Cook Chorizo: In the same skillet, add halved chorizo slices and stir-fry them in olive oil. Cook until the chorizo is golden and crispy on the outside, releasing its smoky essence into the pan.
Make the Stew: Gently add the cleaned clams to the pan with chorizo and briefly stir-fry. Then deglaze the pan by pouring in dry white wine, allowing it to simmer for a minute, infusing the flavors.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, incorporate the onion-garlic sauce, cover the pan, and let it cook until the clams open up—about 5-7 minutes. Remember to discard any clams that remain unopened.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, finish off your beautiful stew with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately for a warm, inviting meal.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up that delightful broth.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Portuguese Clams Stew with Chorizo?

Looking to elevate your cozy dining experience with delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this seafood stew?

Crusty Bread: A must-have for soaking up that delicious broth, this bread adds a comforting texture to every bite.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: This flavorful dish echoes the ocean theme and adds a delightful garlic kick, making it a perfect side.
Steamed Asparagus: Fresh and vibrant, asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to the soft clams and chorizo, adding a touch of green to the plate.
Light Salad: A citrusy avocado salad dressed in lime vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness, balancing the stew’s rich flavors.
White Wine: Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc; its crisp acidity perfectly enhances the seafood while complementing the smoky chorizo.
Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these wedges are great for dipping in the stew and add heartiness to your meal.
Roasted Tomato Bruschetta: Topping toasted bread with fresh tomatoes and basil makes for a refreshing and flavorful appetizer that whets the appetite.
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note; this light dessert offers a zesty cleanse after the hearty stew.
Olive Tapenade: Serve this savory spread on crackers; its briny flavor complements the clams wonderfully, creating a nice opening to your meal.
Fruity Sangria: A refreshing glass of sangria adds a fruity and festive note, making your dinner feel even more like a celebration.

Portuguese Clams Stew Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to craft your perfect bowl of comfort!

Chorizo Swap: Use spicy Italian sausage for a similar smoky flavor with a little more heat.
Seafood Medley: Add shrimp and mussels alongside clams for a vibrant, mixed seafood experience. This adds variety and a different texture to your stew.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers or a handful of spinach for extra nutrition and color. It’s a delicious way to sneak in more veggies!
Broth Base: Swap white wine for vegetable or seafood broth for a richer, non-alcoholic version that still brings depth to the flavors.
Smoky Bean Addition: Toss in some white beans for heartiness to create a stew that’s even more fulfilling and protein-packed.
Herb Variation: Exchange cilantro for fresh basil or dill to brighten the dish with different fragrances; each herb brings its unique twist.
Tomato Inclusion: Stir in some diced tomatoes for acidity and sweetness; this can balance the earthiness of the stew beautifully.
Heat Level: For those who love a kick, introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up!

Make Ahead Options

These Portuguese Clams Stew with Chorizo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can clean the clams and soak them in salted water up to 24 hours in advance to ensure they’re sand-free. Additionally, sauté the onion and garlic to create the base sauce, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. On the day of serving, simply cook the chorizo, combine it with the prepared clams, and deglaze with white wine. This method ensures you achieve restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of this stew even on the busiest nights!

Expert Tips for Portuguese Clams Stew

Fresh Clams: Use fresh clams for the best flavor and ensure you clean them thoroughly to avoid sand in your stew.
Sautéing Perfectly: Cook your onion and garlic until translucent; overcooking can lead to bitterness. A smooth base enhances the stew’s richness.
Alcohol Evaporation: Make sure the wine fully evaporates before lowering the heat; this prevents an uncooked alcohol flavor in your Portuguese clams stew.
Buying Chorizo: Look for high-quality chorizo to elevate the dish; don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for suggestions if unsure.
Add Your Touch: Feel free to experiment with different seafood or add vegetables like bell peppers for nutrition and flavor variety.

How to Store and Freeze Portuguese Clams Stew

Fridge: Store the stew in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the clams.
Freezer: If you need to store leftovers, freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Use airtight freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Portuguese clams stew, reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Portuguese Clams Stew with Chorizo Recipe FAQs

What type of clams should I use for the stew?
Absolutely! Fresh live clams like Littlenecks or Manila are preferred for their superior flavor and texture. If fresh clams aren’t available, you can use canned or frozen clams as a substitute, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly from using fresh.

How do I store leftover Portuguese clams stew?
Very simple! Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the clams.

Can Portuguese clams stew be frozen?
Yes, it can! To freeze your stew, place it in airtight, freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How should I thaw and reheat the stew after freezing?
For the best flavor and texture, thaw the stew overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This gentle approach helps avoid toughness in the clams.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind with this stew?
Certainly! This stew is naturally gluten-free, which is great for those with gluten sensitivities. However, be cautious if serving to pets, as clams may not agree with every animal. And for individuals with shellfish allergies, this dish should be avoided altogether. Always inform guests about the main ingredients for safety.

What if some clams don’t open while cooking?
It’s essential to discard any unopened clams after cooking. Clams that remain closed could be a sign they were not fresh. As you prepare the stew, keep an eye on the ones that open, as they hold all the delightful flavors that make this Portuguese Clams Stew with Chorizo extra special!