How to Clean Clams for Safe and Delicious Meals

Clams can be a healthy and enjoyable part of a meal. Cleaning clams removes sand, salt, or other grit and is also important for food safety. By removing damaged clams, soaking, and scrubbing, you can clean clams in preparation for cooking.

Part 1: Removing Bad Clams

Step 1: Tap any clams that have open shells. Tap any clams that have open shells. You can use a countertop, spoon, or your finger to lightly tap the shell. Throw out any clams that do not close when tapped. This indicates they are dead and unsuitable for eating.

Step 2: Throw away clams that are cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged. Throw away clams that are cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged. Damaged shells can allow bacteria to enter, making the clam unsafe to eat. This is also an indication that the clam may be dead.

Step 3: Place the clams in a bowl of water. Place the clams in a bowl of water. Remove any clams that float. Floating is a sign that the clam is dead. Toxins from dead clams can be transferred from the clam to you, even after cooking.

Part 2: Soaking the Clams

Step 1: Submerge the clams in a bowl of water. Submerge the clams in a bowl of water. You can use saltwater or freshwater. Soaking methods differ depending on which type of water you choose. Saltwater is often considered to be the more effective method as it mimics the clams’ natural habitat for cleaning.

Step 2: Add 2 tablespoons of cornmeal to the soaking water. Add 2 tablespoons of cornmeal to the soaking water. This may help clean the grit from the clams while they are soaking. The cornmeal may alter the taste of the clams by making them slightly sweeter.

Step 3: Remove the clams from the water with your hands. Remove the clams from the water with your hands. The debris from the clams will be at the bottom of the bowl, so do not use a strainer. Lifting them out by hand will prevent recontamination of the clams.

Step 4: Scrub the clams with a sturdy brush. Scrub the clams with a sturdy brush. Rinse the clams under running water after you have finished brushing them. This will help remove any remaining grit or debris from the outside shell.

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