Pacific Northwest Microwbrew Steamers With Bread

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This has amazed our guests for years, but is so easy it leaves me time to enjoy their company! And sometimes hubby and i just have it together with a very oaky chardonnay. The use of unsalted butter is imperative for this recipe, else it is way too salty! This serves 4 for a pretty filling appetizer or 2 for a meal with a salad. You can use clams instead of mussels if you wish. There will be plenty of broth to soak up with a nice crusty bread.

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Steps

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In a large non-reactive pot with lid , melt butter.

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Add garlic , pepper , shallots , tarragon , thyme , parsley , chives and beer.

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Heat just to a simmer and stir in mussels or clams.

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Cover and steam 4-7 minutes till shells have opened.

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Discard any that have not opened.

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Put clams in individual bowls and ladle broth over.

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Serve with crusty bread for sopping.

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Ingredients

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unsalted butter, garlic cloves, fresh ground black pepper, shallots, dried tarragon, dried thyme, fresh parsley, fresh chives, ale, fresh mussels