Marwai – Shell/Clam
Marwai (Clam), also known as shellfish, is a type of bivalve mollusk found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Clams have a distinctive, sweet, briny flavor and are a rich source of nutrients. They are often cooked in various Indian and international recipes, making them a favorite for seafood lovers.
Health Benefits of Marwai (Clam)
- Rich in Protein: Clams provide high-quality protein, making them an excellent option for muscle repair and overall growth.
- Good Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Clams are high in Omega-3s, which help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and supporting brain function.
- Packed with Vitamins: They are loaded with vitamins such as B12, which is important for nerve function and energy production.
- High in Iron: Clams are a great source of iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the body and reducing the risk of anemia.
- Supports Bone Health: Clams contain calcium, phosphorus, and other essential minerals that contribute to strong bones and teeth.
- Low in Calories: Being low in calories and fat, clams are ideal for those who are weight-conscious or on a low-fat diet.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Clams contain antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Indian Recipe 1: Marwai Sukka (Clam Dry Fry)
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh clams, cleaned
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated coconut
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Curry leaves and salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat coconut oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, curry leaves, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder, and cook for a minute.
- Add cleaned clams, salt, and a little water, and cook until the clams open.
- Add grated coconut and cook on low heat for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or chapati.
Indian Recipe 2: Marwai Curry (Clam Coconut Curry)
Ingredients:
- 500g clams, cleaned
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 cup thick coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Curry leaves and salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat coconut oil in a pan and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and curry leaves, and sauté for a minute.
- Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder, and cook until the tomatoes turn soft.
- Add clams, salt, and a little water. Cook until the clams open.
- Stir in coconut milk and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or appam.
Indian Recipe 3: Tandoori Marwai (Grilled Clams)
Ingredients:
- 500g clams, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
- Marinate the cleaned clams in this mixture for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the marinated clams for 5-7 minutes or until they are lightly charred and cooked.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.
Non-Indian Recipe 1: Clam Chowder
Ingredients:
- 500g clams, cleaned and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Cook until potatoes are tender.
- Add clams and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Non-Indian Recipe 2: Spaghetti alle Vongole (Clam Pasta)
Ingredients:
- 500g clams, cleaned
- 300g spaghetti
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add white wine and clams, cover, and cook until the clams open.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the pan, toss with clams, and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Non-Indian Recipe 3: Clam Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 500g clams, cleaned
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add onions and bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add clams, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, and stir-fry until the clams open.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
These recipes highlight the versatile nature of Marwai (Clam) in both Indian and Non-Indian cuisines. The variety of flavors and textures in these dishes allow you to enjoy clams in many creative ways while benefiting from their nutritional richness.