STEAMED MUSSELS AND CLAMS

Steamed Mussels and Clams image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 pound mussels
2 pounds littleneck clams
1 small white baguette, cut into 3/4-inch slices
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, cut in half
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3/4 pound leeks, white parts only, cut in half lengthwise and sliced very thinly, well washed
2 medium shallots, finely chopped
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 small sprig fresh oregano
1 fresh or dried bay leaf
1/2 serrano chile, seeded and deveined
2 cups dry white wine
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

Scrub mussels and clams in cool water. Remove beards from mussels, and discard all broken or opened shells. Remove from water, and refrigerate until needed.
Heat broiler or grill to medium-high heat. Brush bread slices with olive oil on both sides. Place on grill or under broiler for about 30 seconds on each side or until golden. While still hot, rub tops with cut side of garlic clove.
Place a large stockpot on grill or stove over medium heat. Add butter. When melted and bubbling, add leeks, shallots, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and chile. Saute until leeks and shallots are translucent, about 10 minutes. Add white wine, and salt and pepper to taste; bring to a simmer. Add mussels and clams; cover; cook until shells open, about 7 minutes. Serve in a bowl with the croutons.