Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender clams steamed in fragrant sake and served in a rich miso butter broth that melds umami and creaminess beautifully. This japanese-inspired seafood ready in about 20 minutes blends pounds fresh clams, scrubbed, dry sake, tablespoons unsalted butter into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Japanese cuisine 220 cal/serving
Build a week of meals around this recipe → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Bakeware & baking tools → Shop all kitchen tools →

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Whisk 2 tablespoons white miso paste into the butter mixture until fully combined and smooth. Pour in 1/2 cup dry sake and bring to a simmer.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 pounds scrubbed fresh clams to the skillet, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and steam over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally until all clams have opened.
  4. Step 4: Remove the lid carefully and discard any unopened clams. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 2 thinly sliced scallions. Ladle clams and broth into serving bowls.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately with 2 lemon wedges for squeezing over, perfect for dipping crusty bread.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Sake-Steamed Clams with Miso Butter Sauce?

Japanese seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

Related recipes