Steamed Cockles with Spicy Lime Chili Dipping Sauce

Suggested Meal Time

Appetizer or light meal

Estimated Calories

~250–300 calories per serving

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Ingredients

For the Cockles

• 1 kg (2.2 lb) fresh cockles

• 1 tbsp salt

• Water, as needed

For the Spicy Dipping Sauce

• 2 tbsp fish sauce

• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 1 tbsp sugar (palm sugar preferred)

• 2–3 red chilies, finely chopped

• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1 tbsp chopped spring onions

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Instructions

1. Clean the Cockles

Soak the cockles in salted water for 30–45 minutes to remove sand.
Rinse thoroughly under running water and drain well.

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2. Steam the Cockles

Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add the cockles, cover with a lid, and steam for 3–5 minutes, until the shells open.

Discard any cockles that do not open.

Drain immediately to prevent overcooking.

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3. Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Add chopped chilies, garlic, cilantro, and spring onions.
Mix well and adjust taste to balance salty, sour, sweet, and spicy flavors.

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4. Serve

Arrange the steamed cockles on a serving plate.
Serve hot with the spicy lime chili dipping sauce on the side.

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Who This Dish Is Good For

• Seafood lovers

• Fans of bold, spicy, and tangy flavors

• Light meals or sharing appetizers

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Cooking Tips

• Do not oversteam cockles; they cook very quickly.

• Always discard unopened shells for safety.