How to Steam Clean & Prepare Clams

A bin full of fresh clams.

Clams are small shellfish that can be prepared in several ways, the most common being fried or steamed. Like other types of shellfish, clams live on the sea floor and are known as filter feeders. Filter feeders generally live off of plankton or any other small particles they can find, which can include waste from other fish. Because of their diets and environments, clams must be properly cleaned and prepared to reduce the risk of ingesting harmful bacteria.

Things You'll Need

• Stiff brush
• Steamer

Instructions

1. Scrub the clam shells with a stiff wire brush to remove any large chunks of dirt or sand. Rinse the clams under cool running water.

2. Fill a steamer half full with water and put it on the stove at high heat.

3. Add the clams to the top portion of the steamer. Arrange them so they are in an even layer rather than a pile. If you cannot fit all of the clams in an even layer, steam them in multiple sessions.

4. Put the lid on top of the steamer.

5. Steam the clams for four to nine minutes after the water comes to a rolling boil. You can tell the clams are cooked when the shells open. The steam will also help remove sand inside the shell.

References

• University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension: Seafood Safety