Steamed clams

Sandiego 11 bg 010706

Steamedclams

Steamed clams are a popular seafood dish, particularly in coastal regions. The dish consists of clams that are cooked by steaming, which helps to preserve their natural flavors and tenderness. Steamed clams are often served with melted butter, lemon, and sometimes garlic or white wine.

Preparation

The preparation of steamed clams typically involves the following steps:

1. Cleaning: The clams are thoroughly cleaned to remove any sand or grit. This often involves soaking them in saltwater for a period of time.
2. Steaming: The cleaned clams are placed in a pot with a small amount of water, wine, or broth. The pot is then covered and heated until the clams open, indicating they are cooked.
3. Serving: Once steamed, the clams are usually served immediately, often with a side of melted butter for dipping.

Types of Clams Used

Various types of clams can be used for steaming, including:

• Soft-shell clams (also known as "steamers")
• Hard clams (such as littlenecks and cherrystones)
• Manila clams

Culinary Variations

Steamed clams can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on regional preferences and available ingredients. Some popular variations include:

• New England Style: Often served with drawn butter and sometimes with clam broth.
• Italian Style: Steamed with garlic, white wine, and parsley.
• Asian Style: Steamed with ginger, soy sauce, and scallions.

Nutritional Information

Clams are a nutritious food, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in:

• Vitamin B12
• Iron
• Omega-3 fatty acids

Cultural Significance

Steamed clams hold cultural significance in various coastal communities. In New England, for example, they are a staple at clambakes and other seafood feasts. In Italy, steamed clams are often enjoyed as part of a larger seafood meal.

Related Pages

• Clam
• Seafood
• Clambake
• Soft-shell clam
• Hard clam
• Manila clam