I enjoy eating seafood, particularly clams. Any type of seafood can satisfy my taste buds. But I’d like to keep some clams in the freezer so I can cook them whenever I want. I’m wondering if I can freeze clams. If so, how will I properly freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze clams. Clams can be shucked or stored in their shells. You can keep it in the fridge either raw or cooked. However, you must take the necessary precautions because once dead and exposed to warm temperatures, seafood can easily spoil and become contaminated by bacteria.
Can You Freeze Clams?
Yes, you can refrigerate or freeze any type of clam. Keep live clams in an open container in the refrigerator at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Both shucked clams and clams in shells can be frozen.
If stored properly, live clams, shucked clams, and clams in shells will remain fresh and plump. Live clams can be kept in an open container for two to three days. Frozen clam meat and clams in shells can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
It’s best to cook live clams within three days of purchasing them. Check that the shells are closed. Opened shells indicate that the clams are dead and should be discarded.
Frozen clams in shells or clam meat should be refrigerated for 6 hours before use. You should only thaw the portion you intend to cook. Clams that have thawed cannot be re-frozen.
You can also cook the clams ahead of time and then freeze them. Frozen cooked clams, on the other hand, can be a little tougher and rubbery than frozen fresh clams.
Before freezing the clams, make sure to rinse them in cold water. Though fresh and live clams are best for cooking, freezing is an excellent way to store them.
How to Freeze and Store Clams
To keep clams fresh, take the following steps when freezing live clams.
Live clams in their shells or shucked can be frozen.
If you want to keep clams in their shells, make sure the shells are closed. Opened shells indicate that the clams have died. Clams in shell can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Rinse clams in cold water.
- Do not rinse it in warm water.
- Remove any excess water from the clams (in shells).
- Put the clams in an airtight, moisture-resistant container or bag.
- Remove any excess air, then seal the storage bag and place it in the freezer.
If you choose to shuck the clams, you should do the following steps.
- Shuck the clams.
- Wash the clam meat thoroughly in cold, running water.
- Remove any excess water.
- Place the clam meat in an airtight container.
- Allow for a 1/2 inch head space.
- Close the storage bag and freeze.
To store live clams in the fridge, you must do these steps.
- Live clams should be placed in an open container with some paper towels or moist cloth.
- The temperature of the fridge should be around 32o
- Do not put fresh water into the container.
- Do not use an air-tight container in this method.
- The live clams can stay fresh for two to three days.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Clams?
Clams are a delicious and nutritious seafood that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But what do you do when you have extra clams? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover clams:
- Make a clam chowder – Clam chowder is a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cold winter day. Just add some chopped clams, potatoes, and vegetables to a pot of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
- Use them as an appetizer – Clams make a great appetizer when they’re stuffed with cheese and bacon then baked or grilled. Just stuff the clams with your favorite cheese and bacon, then bake or grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add them to your pasta – Clams are a great addition to any pasta dish. Just add them in with your other favorite ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
- Make a clam dip – Clam dip is a delicious and easy to make appetizer that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Just combine some chopped clams, cream cheese, sour cream, and spices, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Use them as bait – If you’re an avid fisherman, you can use your leftover clams as bait. Simply put them on your hook and cast away!
So there you have it – five ways to use up your leftover clams. Next time you find yourself with extra seafood, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Recipes
Clam with White Wine and Garlic
This clam dish is quick and simple to prepare. White wine adds richness to the flavor. It goes well with salad and bread.
Spaghetti with Clams
This is a simple but delicious Italian dish. It’s ideal for lunch and dinner. However, it can also be served on special occasions.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=KUUk0pdb17Y
Stuffed Clams
This baked clam dish is both nutritious and tasty. It’s good as an appetizer, but it’s also good with steamed rice.
Wrap Up
Although clams are best eaten fresh, they can also be stored in the freezer. You can store live clams in their shells or shuck for two to three days in the fridge. Frozen clam meat and clams in shells can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.