Fresh Manila Clams with Black Bean Sauce

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds fresh Manila clams
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 2 tablespoons diced onion
• 1 tablespoon red jalapeno pepper
• 1 tablespoon salted Chinese black beans
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1.5 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch mix with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onion
• Salt and pepper, to taste (Some black beans are very salty, so salt may not be necessary.)

Preparation:

1. Clean the clams by rinsing in water until all mud and sand are removed.
2. In a saute pan on medium heat, add vegetable oil, onions and garlic. Saute for a few seconds, add clams, cook for a minute then add chicken stock, chili pepper, black beans and oyster sauce.
3. Keep cooking until all the clams are open. Stir in cornstarch mixture and bring to a boil. Finish by adding the green onion and season with salt and pepper, if needed. Turn off heat.