Can You Freeze Clams?
Yes, fresh or frozen, clams may be added to soups, salads, casseroles, or any dish that requires clam meat.
Clams are delicious, nutritious shellfish that are often eaten raw or steamed. They are also a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
There are two main types of clams: soft-shell clams and hardshell clams. Soft-shell clams are usually sold live, whereas hardshell clams are usually frozen.
Soft-shell clams can be found in the wild along the coast from Maine to Florida. Hardshell clams come primarily from the Pacific Northwest.
If you’re going to buy your clams, make sure they are alive by testing them with your finger. The shells should close when touched. If not, throw them out.
How to Freeze and Store Clams?
Clams are a great food for any time of year. They’re a bit like mussels in that they’re a great source of protein, but they’re much less expensive, and they don’t need to be cooked.
You can even eat them raw, which makes them perfect for summertime. The only downside is that clams do tend to spoil quickly.
Freezing:
- Remove shells from the clams by holding them over a bowl and smashing them with the back of a knife. This will allow you to see if any meat has been damaged.
- Put the clams into a large zip-top bag, then pour the liquid from the package into the bag.
- Add the seasoning, and then seal the bag. Make sure to shake the clams around so that all the spices are evenly distributed.
- Pour the clams into a baking dish and freeze for eight hours.
- Once the clams have frozen, transfer the bag of clams to a freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to one year.
- To use, place the clams in a pot and cover them with water. Heat the water until it comes to a boil, lower the heat, and cover—Cook the clams for 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve the clams with lemon wedges.
Storing Clams:
Freezing clams is a great way to preserve their flavor, but it also means that you won’t be able to enjoy them as soon as you get them home.
- To store clams properly, first, remove the shells.
- Then put the clams into a zip-top bag and add enough water to submerge the clams completely.
- Seal the bag tightly, label it, and place it in the refrigerator.
- You can leave the clams in the fridge for three days before serving them.
You can freeze clams for up to six months.
How to Thaw Frozen Clams?
Thawing clams is a simple process, but it can be challenging when the weather turns cold. If you’re in the business of serving clams, freezing temperatures are a bummer, as they affect the texture and flavor of your clams.
But if you’re just getting started with cooking and eating clams, a few degrees of cold won’t hurt you.
Process:
- Thaw frozen clams by leaving them overnight at room temperature. You can leave them for a few days, but that’s too long to wait.
- Scrub the shells with a wire brush or scrub pad, then rinse with warm water.
- Place the cleaned clams in a large bowl or pan. Cover with cold water and refrigerate overnight. The clams will absorb the cold water and thaw.
- Drain the uncooked clams and discard the soaking liquid.
Serve the clams immediately after thawing.
How to Clean Clams?
The clam, or bivalve, is a popular and delicious shellfish that grows in many parts of the world.
Clams are so plentiful that they have been used as a food source for thousands of years.
Because clams are easy to harvest, live in shallow waters, and have soft shells, they are generally not very difficult to eat. But how do you clean them?
Process:
- Fill a large bowl with cool water.
- Using a scrub brush, gently rub the clam shells against the bristles until the entire shell is clean.
- Rinse the clams under running water.
- Using a damp cloth, wipe off the uncooked clams, careful not to dislodge any sand or dirt.
- Allow the clams to dry.
Place the clams in a covered container and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Freezing Clams:
Do Clams Die when Frozen?
No, uncooked clams thrive when frozen. Some people claim that freezing clams helps them last longer than fresh ones.
Can I Freeze Clam Meat?
Yes, frozen clam meat freezes well. However, it would be best to be careful not to overcook it.
The meat becomes tough and rubbery if you cook the clams right through.
How Long Can I Keep Frozen Clams?
Raw clams are best stored frozen for no more than six months. After this time, the clams lose moisture and become less flavorful.
Where Do You Get Fresh Clams?
Fresh raw clams come from local seafood markets. If you live near an ocean, you may find yourself enjoying clams every day.
Can You Eat Dead Clams?
It depends on what kind of clams you buy. Some varieties of clams are meant only for consumption once they die naturally. Others can be eaten alive.
Last Words
Freezing raw clams is a great way to preserve them for later use. It also makes sense to keep clams in the freezer when you don’t want to cook them. You can serve them raw, sauteed, steamed, baked, grilled, broiled, or fried. They make a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, soups, stews, casseroles, and other types of meals.
Clams are available year-round, but their peak season is summer. This means that you might find yourself enjoying clams all summer long!