Eating in China
Generated illustration of Portuguese-style clams in garlic and white-wine sauce.

Portuguese-style clams

葡式炒蚬Púshì chǎo xiǎn

Clams with garlic, white wine and lemon

A Portuguese-style clam dish found in Macau. Clams are cooked with olive oil, garlic, white wine and lemon juice, making a light, aromatic sauce.

Heat
Region
Macau
Type
Dishes
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Lift the meat from the open shells with a fork or chopsticks. Leave the shells on a separate plate; they are not edible.

A useful check

Contains molluscan shellfish and wine. Cooking does not guarantee that all alcohol is removed.

How it may vary

White wine here means grape wine, not Chinese baijiu. Ask about extra seasonings if you have dietary restrictions.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Seasoning and garnishes vary; this version centres on garlic, wine and lemon.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Briny and garlicky, with lemon acidity and wine aroma.

Chili heat
Texture
Tender, slightly springy clam meat in shells with a thin sauce.
How it’s made
Clams are sautéed in olive oil and cooked with white wine, minced garlic and lemon juice.

Seasoning and garnishes vary; this version centres on garlic, wine and lemon.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Macau.

About this regional connection

Macau: MGTO Portuguese dishes page.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有葡式炒蚬吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

Portuguese flavours in Macau

This account describes a tradition or story, rather than an established historical fact.

Portuguese cooking forms part of Macau’s food culture. This dish pairs shellfish with olive oil, wine and citrus rather than a thick sauce.

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