Maine Grilled Beer-Steamed Clams on Arteflame

Introduction

Get ready to impress with these Maine-style grilled beer-steamed clams. Cooking fresh steamers directly on the Arteflame grill infuses them with a rich, smoky flavor, while the beer bath keeps them tender and juicy. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for summer gatherings and seafood lovers alike.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs Maine steamer clams, rinsed and scrubbed
• 2 cups light beer
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 loaf crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a little vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build up for about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready.

Step 2: Cook the Clams

1. On the outer edge of the Arteflame flat cooktop, melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant.
3. Pour the beer over the garlic and bring to a simmer on the flat cooktop.
4. Place the cleaned clams directly onto the hot grill surface near the beer mixture.
5. Cover them loosely with a piece of foil to help them steam.

Step 3: Steam the Clams

1. Allow the clams to steam on the Arteflame until they open, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Discard any clams that do not open.
3. Toss the cooked clams into the beer and butter mixture, coating well.

Step 4: Finish with Butter and Herbs

1. Melt the remaining butter on the side of the cooktop.
2. Mix in the chopped parsley and drizzle over the steamed clams.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Serve hot with lemon wedges and crusty bread.

Tips

• Make sure to discard any clams that do not open after cooking.
• Using light beer keeps the flavor delicate and enhances the natural taste of the clams.
• Grilling the clams directly on the cooktop before adding them to the beer mixture enhances their smoky flavor.
• Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy finish.
• For extra smokiness, try adding a small wood chunk to the fire.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Clams: Add 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
2. Garlic Butter White Wine Clams: Replace beer with white wine and add extra garlic.
3. Lemon Herb Clams: Add fresh thyme and zest of one lemon for a more citrusy taste.
4. Smoky Bacon Clams: Fry diced bacon on the cooktop before adding clams, and sprinkle over before serving.
5. Tomato Basil Clams: Stir in chopped fresh tomatoes and basil at the end for a Mediterranean twist.

Best Pairings

• Cold pilsner or wheat beer
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted potatoes cooked on the cooktop

Conclusion

Grilled beer-steamed clams on the Arteflame grill bring out the best flavors of fresh Maine steamers. Simple, smoky, and utterly delicious, this dish is sure to impress at your next outdoor gathering.