The Forktionary Angle
"The ocean's tender bite."
Definition
Small, sweet, and tender hard-shelled clams, popular for steaming, grilling, and adding a briny, oceanic flavor to pasta dishes, soups, and broths.
Technical Metrics
Best Cooking Method
Steaming or quick sautéing to prevent toughness.
Freshness Indicator
Shells should be tightly closed or close quickly when tapped.
Nutritional Value
Excellent source of iron and Vitamin B12.
Chef’s Secret
To "purge" clams of sand, soak them in cold, salted water (1/3 cup salt per gallon) for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, before cooking.
Buying Guide
Buy from a reputable fishmonger. Ensure they are alive and smell of the ocean, not fishy.
Flavor Pairings
Garlic white wine butter parsley chili flakes pasta crusty bread.