Spicy and Flavorful Clams with Chili Paste and Basil

Hoy Lai Pad Nam Prik Pow is a popular Thai dish featuring fresh clams cooked with a spicy and aromatic chili paste, garlic, and basil. The combination of succulent clams, fiery chili paste, and fragrant basil creates a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more. This recipe is easy to prepare and takes only a few minutes to cook, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Serve it with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own for a delightful seafood dish that will definitely impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh clams, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pow)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Thai chili paste to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add the cleaned clams to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to open.
5. Add the fish sauce and sugar to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Add the fresh basil leaves and sliced red chili (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for a final minute.
7. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the clams and sauce to a serving dish.
8. Serve the clams hot with lime wedges on the side.

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