Shinane Sukhem
A classic Goan delicacy featuring fresh clams cooked with grated coconut, tangy tamarind, and a hint of jaggery. This semi-dry dish bursts with coastal flavors and is best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
Clean the Clams
1.Submerge the clams in a large bowl of cold, salted water for 30-60 minutes. This process helps them purge any sand or grit from inside their shells.2.After soaking, scrub the outside of each shell with a stiff brush under running water to remove any external dirt or barnacles.3.Rinse thoroughly and set aside. Discard any clams that are open and do not close when tapped.Prepare the Coconut Masala Paste
1.In a grinder or small blender, combine the grated coconut, coriander seeds, ginger, garlic, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and tamarind paste.2.Grind to a coarse paste. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water only if needed to help the ingredients blend smoothly.Sauté the Aromatics and Masala
1.Heat the coconut oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.2.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they become soft, translucent, and lightly golden.3.Add the ground coconut masala paste to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously, until the raw aroma disappears and the masala becomes fragrant.Cook the Clams
1.Add the cleaned clams to the pan along with the slit green chilies, jaggery, salt, and 1/4 cup of water.2.Gently stir everything together to ensure the clams are well-coated with the masala.3.Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook on medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally.4.The clams are cooked once their shells have opened. Do not overcook, as they will become tough.Garnish and Serve
1.Once cooked, turn off the heat. Carefully discard any clams that have not opened.2.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.3.Serve hot with steamed rice or traditional Goan bread (pao).
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always discard any clams that do not open after cooking; they are not safe to eat.
- 2Do not overcook the clams. They are ready as soon as they open. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- 3For the most authentic flavor, use fresh grated coconut and coconut oil.
- 4Be cautious with salt. Clams release salty water as they cook, so add less salt initially and adjust at the end if needed.
- 5The balance of tangy (tamarind) and sweet (jaggery) is key. Feel free to adjust these quantities to your personal preference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This same masala base works wonderfully with mussels (Tisryo Sukhem) or even small prawns.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Add 1 small potato, diced, along with the onions to make the dish more substantial. You may need a little extra water to cook the potatoes through.
Spice LevelSpice Level
For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of Goan red chilli powder or increase the number of green chilies.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Clams are a fantastic source of high-quality, low-fat protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and cells.
Excellent Source of Iron
This dish is packed with iron, a vital mineral for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia, which helps boost energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Packed with Vitamin B12
Clams are one of the best natural sources of Vitamin B12, crucial for maintaining healthy nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
Anti-inflammatory Spices
The inclusion of spices like turmeric (containing curcumin) and ginger provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, supporting overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Fresh clams should have tightly closed shells. If a shell is slightly open, tap it gently. If it closes, it's alive and fresh. If it stays open, discard it. They should also have a fresh, oceanic smell, not a strong fishy odor.
