Forktionary

Clams

Bivalvia (class) Seafood

Clams Seafood

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood

The Forktionary Angle

"Harnessing the ocean's whisper to infuse dishes with unparalleled briny depth."

Definition

Edible marine bivalve mollusks with two hinged shells, known for their tender, briny flesh, popular in soups, pasta, and steamed dishes.

Global Harvest (Metric Tons/Year) ~18 Million
Omega-3 Content (per 100g) ~100-200mg
Optimal Depuration Temperature 45-50°F (7-10°C)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Clams are:

Briny sweet oceanic slightly metallic

Chef’s Secret

Before cooking, "purge" clams by soaking them in cold, salted water (1/3 cup salt per gallon water) for 30 minutes to an hour. This encourages them to expel any sand.

Best Substitutes

Mussels

similar texture, slightly milder
Ratio 1:1

Oysters

different texture, richer
Ratio 1:1

Scallops

sweeter, different preparation
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Buy live clams with tightly closed shells or shells that close when tapped. Avoid any with cracked shells or strong off-odors.

Culinary Pairings

Garlic white wine butter parsley pasta crusty bread lemon chili flakes

Recipes Using Clams

Amazing Spaghetti With Seafood Sauce image 116
Comfort Food Taste Mood Stove Top 60 Minutes Or Less

Amazing Spaghetti With Seafood Sauce

Husband's new favorite! This incredible seafood spaghetti recipe is bursting with flavor. Tender spaghetti tossed in a vibrant tomato sauce with succulent shellfish and a hint of lemon. Easy to follow instructions for a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour.

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Angel Hair Pasta With Clams image 105
Time To Make Main Dish Pasta Seafood

Angel Hair Pasta With Clams

Indulge in this light yet flavorful Angel Hair Pasta with Clams recipe, inspired by Cooking Light. Each serving boasts a mere 310 calories, packing 19.6g of protein and a delightful blend of fresh clam flavor and delicate pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes! Prepare to be amazed by the zesty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

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Aunt Phyllis Clam Casserole image 106
Potluck Stove Top Savory Shellfish

Aunt Phyllis Clam Casserole

This recipe, passed down from Aunt Phyllis herself, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! A creamy, comforting clam casserole bursting with fresh seafood flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Baked Clams image 121
Clams Easy Seafood Dinner Party

Baked Clams

Recreate the magic of a honeymoon seafood dinner with this delectable baked clams recipe! Inspired by a cherished memory, this recipe uses readily available ingredients to bring the taste of fresh clams to your kitchen, even if you're landlocked. Get ready for a burst of savory, garlicky goodness with a perfectly golden-brown topping. A simple yet elegant dish perfect for a romantic night in or a special occasion.

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Battered Fried Clams image 138
Number Of Servings Time To Make No Shell Fish Easy

Battered Fried Clams

Forget those frozen supermarket clams! This recipe delivers the ultimate crispy, golden-fried clam experience. Dive into succulent, perfectly battered clams – a true taste of the sea. Serve them with your favorite sides: our KFC Coleslaw (recipe #110948), crispy chips, onion rings, or French fries. And don't forget the essential tartar sauce! This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Seafood Stew Crock Pot image 156
Seafood Main Dish Seafood One Dish Meal

Seafood Stew Crock Pot

This hearty and healthy seafood stew is a delicious and adaptable recipe perfect for a weeknight meal! Using up leftover ingredients from your fridge and pantry, this low-calorie, low-fat recipe is packed with flavor. Imagine succulent shrimp, clams, and scallops simmering with tender chicken in a rich tomato broth, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. Spice it up or keep it mild – it's entirely customizable to your taste! Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying seafood feast!

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