CLAM FRITTATA

Steps:

• Place the top oven rack about 8 inches from the flame. Preheat the broiler. Tightly wrap the handle of a 9-inch nonstick skillet with a double thickness of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Beat the eggs until smooth. Add the tomato, ham, cheese and half-and-half and stir to mix well.
• Heat the oil in the prepared skillet over medium heat and add thyme and garlic. Stir until the oil is aromatic, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the egg mixture while stirring slowly. Stir in the butter, pepper and hot sauce. When curds begin to form, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the clams and basil. Cook until the egg mixture thickens, adjusting the heat if necessary so the bottom does not scorch. (Or place the skillet over a pot of simmering water and cook eggs as in a double boiler or bain marie.)
• When the eggs have mostly set and only a thin, uncooked layer remains on top, place the skillet under the broiler, stirring once after 2 minutes, until the top is lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Serve while warm.