New England Soft Shell Steamed Clams. The best steamed clams

white wine

🥗Healthier: broth

💰Cheaper: water

Broth adds flavor without alcohol, while water is a budget option.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is heart-healthy, and margarine is often less expensive.

Clean clams in cold water to purge sand, rinsing a few times.

Remove any broken clams before cooking.

Place 5 pounds of soft shell clams in a pot.

Add a small amount of water to the pot (just enough to create steam).

Cover the pot and turn on the heat to bring it to a boil.

Steam the clams for about 5 minutes until they open up.

Check the clams by squeezing them; if they close tightly, they are alive, if they spring back, discard them.

Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and transfer the clams to a serving dish.

Melt some butter in a separate container for dipping.

Pour some of the clam broth into another bowl for serving.

Remove the neck from the clam shell and dip it in the broth or butter before eating.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens