Now that we're somewhat landlocked, the scent of the ocean and the walks along the sand are what I miss most. It's one of the pleasures of living near the ocean and one that I missed this entire summer. On the bright side we'll be in Rye, NY next weekend and Amaya will be taken on her first stroll along sandy shores. The first of many, if all goes according to plan. But I digress...
Buying seafood has been a challenge since we moved. To be honest, buying seafood retail is always a challenge, nowhere is the difference between restaurant quality and retail more obvious than when it comes to fish. High quality meat is hard to find, pristine fish is a near impossibility. Thankfully we have friends willing to help us out. When lobsters are out of reach, clams are a worthy substitute to satisfy my craving for salty sea breezes and briny deliciousness. We're lucky enough to have two varieties to work with for the weekend, littlenecks and razor clams. My first instinct is to steam them with garlic, white wine, and whatever herbs we have available, and then hunker down with a loaf of bread, some bitter greens and a bottle of wine. Unfortunately this bounty is not for me and our guests will be expecting a little more finesse, no make that refinement, on their plates. It's a challenge and one we're looking forward to. You'll have to wait to see what happens next.