Steamed Pipis in White Wine and Garlic

Serves 4

 When I lived in Spain I was introduced to this seafood and I was in love from day one. The great thing about this recipe is it’s one of those incredibly easy dishes to throw together, it’s cheap and it tastes so good.

 I usually make it when I have friends around for dinner and we start with a big steaming bowl of Pipis in the middle of the table to share.

 INGREDIENTS

• 1 packet frozen Pipis or if you’re lucky 1kg of fresh ones

• 2 - 3 cloves finely chopped garlic

• ½ cup chopped flat leaf parsley

• slug extra virgin olive oil

• ½ cup dry white wine - and an extra glass to enjoy while you’re cooking

• shake chilli flakes (optional)

• 1 loaf crusty fresh bread or a gluten free version

 METHOD

• Defrost your pipis by placing in a colander and rinsing them, often. You want to make sure all the sand has been washed away before you cook.

• Heat the oil in a fry pan or skillet that has a lid, then add the garlic. It’s here that you can add a small shake of chilli flakes for extra bite.

• Fry for a few minutes then add the wine. (It’s here that I usually pour myself a glass of wine to enjoy while I’m waiting)

• Cook the alcohol off and then add the pipis. Cover with the lid and give them a shake

• Let them cook for a few minutes and give another shake. Take the lid off and check - the pipis should all be open. If not, replace lid and let them steam a little more. Don’t leave them too long or they will be tough

• Take off the lid and sprinkle over the parsley and give another shake

• Pour them into a large bowl and serve with big chunks of crusty bread to soak up all the juices

You won’t need to season as the natural juices from the Pipis give enough richness to the dish. You also won’t need any cutlery - just pick them up with your fingers and eat them straight out of the shell.

Please remember if you find any pipis unopened, do not eat them.