Clams and Chourico

Ingredients

• 24 small clams in shell , scrubbed
• 0.25 cups cornmeal
• 0.25 cups olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 8 ounces chourico sausage , diced
• 1 medium red onion , sliced
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes , Optional
• 1 can or bottle dark beer , 12 fluid ounce
• 1 bottle clam juice , 8 ounce
• 1 can crushed roma tomatoes , 28 ounce
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Place clams in a large pot with enough water to cover. Stir in cornmeal. Let stand for about 20 minutes. Rinse clams thoroughly before cooking.

2. 2

   Heat the olive oil and garlic in a large pot over medium heat. When the garlic is fragrant, add the chourico, onion, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes, then pour in about 3/4 of the beer. Let simmer for a few more minutes, then add the clam juice, tomatoes, and rinsed clams.

3. 3

   Cover, and simmer until all clams have opened. Season with oregano, salt and pepper before serving. Drink or discard remaining beer.