Ingredients

For the base

  • 2 lb fresh littleneck or Manila clams, scrubbed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp aji amarillo paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Liquids

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • ½ cup fish stock or clam juice
  • Juice of 1 lime

To finish

  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Thinly sliced scallions
  • Extra lime wedges

To serve (optional but classic)

  • Steamed white rice
  • Grilled bread or yuca

Method

1. Build the flavor base

Heat the olive oil in a wide pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sweat for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and aji amarillo paste and cook 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Bloom the spices

Add the cumin and smoked paprika and stir for 30 seconds to release their aroma.

3. Add the tomatoes and liquids

Add the cherry tomatoes, coconut milk and fish stock. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 8–10 minutes, until the broth is rich and slightly thickened.

4. Steam the clams

Add the clams, cover and cook 5–7 minutes, until all the shells open. Discard any that don’t open.

5. Finish with citrus and herbs

Stir in the lime juice and adjust the salt. Finish with cilantro and scallions.