A Deeper Dive into Their History & Recipes to Try at Home
At The Waterfront Restaurant, our Steamer Bowls have earned a reputation for being one of the best ways to enjoy fresh seafood. Overflowing with an assortment of clams, mussels, shrimp, crab, and flavorful broth, they’re the perfect blend of indulgence and comfort. Due to their popularity, we wanted to share more about their history, their incredible flavors, and a few random Steamer Bowl recipes you can try at home!
The History of Steamer Bowls: A Coastal Tradition
The origins of Steamer Bowls date back centuries, deeply rooted in coastal communities where fresh seafood was abundant. The concept of steaming shellfish in a fragrant broth can be traced to multiple cultures, from the Native American tribes of the Northeast, who cooked clams and mussels over hot stones, to European settlers who adapted these methods into hearty seafood stews.
In New England, the traditional Clambake involved steaming shellfish, corn, and potatoes in pits lined with hot stones. As cooking techniques evolved, people began using large pots and broth-infused steaming methods to enhance the flavor. Today, Steamer Bowls are found in coastal restaurants across the United States, each with a unique spin on the classic dish.
What Makes The Waterfront Restaurant’s Steamer Bowls Special?
At The Waterfront Restaurant, our Steamer Bowls feature the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible. What sets ours apart?
- Fresh seafood: We use a mix of mussels, clams, shrimp, and crab, creating a perfect medley of textures and flavors.
- Rich broth: Our broth is infused with garlic, white wine, butter, and herbs for a deep, savory taste.
- Perfect accompaniments: Served with crusty bread, our Steamer Bowls let you soak up every last drop of flavor.
We love seeing customers enjoy our signature bowls, but if you can’t make it to The Waterfront, we’re sharing a few recipes you can try at home!
How to Make a Steamer Bowl at Home
Recreating the perfect Steamer Bowl at home is easier than you think. You just need fresh seafood, a flavorful broth, and a love for coastal flavors.
Classic Steamer Bowl Recipe
This recipe serves four and brings the authentic taste of The Waterfront Restaurant to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 1 lb clams, rinsed well
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb snow crab legs (optional)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white wine
- 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine and let it simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the seafood broth, lemon slices, Old Bay seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the mussels and clams first, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the shrimp and crab legs. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the shellfish open.
- Discard any mussels or clams that do not open.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the bowl and serve with crusty bread to soak up the broth.
Variations on the Classic Steamer Bowl
1. Spicy Cajun Steamer Bowl
If you love bold flavors, try adding andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and corn on the cob to your Steamer Bowl. The smoky, spicy flavors elevate the dish to a whole new level.
2. Mediterranean Steamer Bowl
For a Mediterranean twist, add cherry tomatoes, olives, and a splash of ouzo to the broth. Serve with grilled pita bread for a unique experience.
3. Thai-Inspired Coconut Steamer Bowl
Swap out the wine and broth for coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and red curry paste for a creamy, aromatic take on the dish.
Tips for the Best Steamer Bowl
To ensure your Steamer Bowl comes out restaurant-quality every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the freshest seafood: Fresh mussels, clams, and shrimp make all the difference. Always buy from a reputable fish market.
- Don’t overcook: Shellfish cook quickly. Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery, so remove them as soon as they open.
- Enhance the broth: The broth is the heart of the dish. Use a good-quality stock and season generously.
- Serve immediately: Steamer Bowls are best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the broth is hot and flavorful.
Try the Best Steamer Bowls at The Waterfront Restaurant
While making your own Steamer Bowl at home is a rewarding experience, nothing beats the real thing at The Waterfront Restaurant. Our chefs carefully craft each bowl with the perfect balance of flavors, ensuring a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Next time you’re in Anna Maria Island, stop by and treat yourself to a bowl of fresh, steaming seafood. Until then, we hope you enjoy trying these recipes at home!
For more seafood inspiration, check out Seafood Watch for sustainable seafood options.
