Method:

1. Place a large pot over a low/ medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook stirring from time to time until the pancetta is crispy and much of the fat has rendered out. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta and place on a plate lined with kitchen paper.
2. If the pan is dry add the oil, if there is an abundance of pancetta fat, even better. Add the garlic and the chilli and cook over a medium heat As the garlic starts to sizzle add the clams, increase the heat to high and stir with a wooden spoon to distribute the garlic and chilli, pop the lid on the pot.
3. After a minute or so lift the lid and check in the pot, the clams should be starting to open. Once they have all opened stir through the parsley, season with cracked pepper and serve immediately with the crispy pancetta spoon over the clams and of course some crusty bread.

Our friends at Wine Selectors suggest pairing this dish with a Fiano.