Cleaning clams correctly will mean the difference between a delicious outcome or having salty and sandy clams to deal with. I can think of more enjoyable things than dealing with the grit of sand in your teeth. Clean your clams well and you're on your way to the best clam chowder, mouth-watering steamer clams, and other wonderful treats from the sea.

There are only a couple easy steps to cleaning clams to make sure that they're are ready for your evening meal. Invite me over, okay? ;)

Cleaning the Clams

• First, thoroughly examine the shells while cleaning clams to make sure that they are not cracked, broken or damaged in any way. Also, make sure that the clam is not already open. They need to be alive when cooked. If he's open, he's already dead and you need to throw him out. They need to be closed up tight and kept in a cool place that will allow them to breathe.
  
  
  
  
• When you're finally ready to cook the clams, soak them in cold water for around 20 minutes. This allows the clam to breathe, filter the fresh water and push out any sand they have inside their shells. Make sure that you remove the clams from the bowl you have them in, by hand. If you pour the clams and water into a straining device, all you're doing is pouring the sand right back in.
  
  
  
  
• Take each clam and, using a nice, stiff brush, scrub them well. This will remove any sand that remains, barnacles and other sea "gunk" they may have on them.

Always remember that your clams must be alive before they are cooked. If they are open before you cook them, and a simple tap on their shell does not cause them to close, throw them away. After they are cooked, throw away any clam that did not open. Dead clams are very likely to carry bacteria and will make you sick.

Another rule of thumb is do not eat raw clams. I have heard that some people do, but I wouldn't recommend it. They carry bacteria and other pollutants from the waters. That may be a no-brainer to you, but for the people who ignore the "do not use your blow dryer in the bathtub" warning label, I want to make sure I say that I at least make you aware. ;)

Clam are best eaten the same day that you catch them. If you do not plan on eating them right away, it is best to keep them wrapped up tight and stored in the refrigerator. Don't wait too long though. You want to enjoy the freshness of your seafood.

That's it! Not too difficult, huh? Now, after the relatively simple task of cleaning clams is done, you're ready to cook them up. Check out a few of my favorite clam recipes.

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