Transfer the bacon and peppers to a bowl using a slotted spoon. Add the diced bell pepper and shallot, and sauté for 2 minutes.Sauté the bacon for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until it is beginning to get crispy edges. Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the diced bacon.Try to reserve as much of the juices in the shell as possible. Twist the knife to pry open the shell, and twist off the top of the shell using your hands. Slide a shucking knife into each clam to separate the flesh from the top shell.Remove from the oven, and allow them to cool enough to handle. Broil the clams for about 5 minutes, or until the shells pop open.Dry the clams, then spread them on a baking sheet. Remove the clams from the water, taking care to not lift up the sand that has collected in the bottom of the bowl. Scrub the clams well, then let them sit in the bowl for 30 minutes. Fill a large bowl or jar with very cold and heavily salted water.
