Portuguese Braised Pork and Clams


This is a traditional Portuguese dish which originates in the Alentejo region. The combination of clams and pork might seem unusual but they complement each other wonderfully and it all comes together in a delicious, briny, broth, perfect for dipping bread. Easy and great for a cozy dinner with a big salad and a bottle of rosé or Portuguese vinho verde.

Ingredients:

I pork tenderloin (approximately 1 lb)
2 tsp smoked sweet paprika
1 tsp crushed red pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 generous Tbs)
2 tsp salt
4 Tbs olive oil (2 for marinade, 2 to sauté)
1/2 White or yellow onion, chopped in to 1/2” pieces
3/4 c white wine
3/4 c chicken or beef stock or clam juice
2 lbs Manila or little neck clams
1 T butter
Parsley, lemon wedges and grilled bread to garnish


Method:

Combine paprika, crushed red pepper, garlic, salt and olive in a bowl. Add pork tenderloin toss to combine. Let marinate, refrigerated at least a couple hours and up to overnight.

Add 2 Tbs olive oil to Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat. 

Add onion, cook 3 minutes until starting to soften.

Add pork (with all the marinade ingredients) and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides. 

Add white wine and stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, let simmer for 5 minutes. 

Add olives and clams. Cook covered until clams start to open, about 2 to 5 minutes. Swirl in butter. 

Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon. Ladle into 4 bowls with the broth and Steve with grilled bread or roasted potatoes and salad. 

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