Otherwise known as soft shell steamed clams, steamers are a specialty of New England.
Add these steamed clams to the list of foods that are fun to eat.
I was first introduced to steamers, or steamed soft shell clams when I lived in Boston years ago.
Elise Bauer
The two sides of the shell don’t close all the way.
Instead, protruding from the shell is a long foot, or siphon.
It’s what the soft shell clam uses to filter the sea water and eat.
Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer
(Could it be where the phrase, “happy as a clam” comes from?)
Fortunately, my gang loves seafood.
Love Clams?
Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer
Simple Tip!
If you’re not using sea water, see to it your salt isn’t iodized.
you’re free to change the water if you want.
Elise Bauer
Place a steamer rack at the bottom of the pot.
You may notice some of the clams “spitting” water at you as you handle them.
This is normal, don’t worry about it.
Elise Bauer
Bring the water to a boil.
Any steamers that didn’t open should be discarded.
Let the clams cool for a couple of minutes.
Elise Bauer
Carefully remove the cooked clams from the pot, placing them in a serving bowl.
Do not discard the clam broth left in the pot.
Instead pour a bit of the hot broth into bowls for serving.
Elise Bauer
Put the melted butter into small bowls for dipping.
To eat, launch the shell and remove the cooked clam.
Use your fingers to pull off the skin covering the siphon of the clam.
Elise Bauer
Discard with the shells into the shell bowl.
Dip the clam into melted butter and eat!
Note, the siphon end of the clam may be a bit tough and rubbery.
Elise Bauer
you could eat it or not.
In any case, it makes a great handle for dipping.
