Classic Steamed Maine Clams with Buttery Dip
Experience the rustic charm of the Maine coastline with this incredibly simple yet delicious recipe for steamed clams. By soaking the clams in a salted cornmeal solution, you allow them to purge any sand and grit, ensuring a clean and tasty bite. Once scrubbed and steamed to perfection, these tender clams are best enjoyed dipped in rich, melted butter. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, and can also be made with mussels for a delightful variation. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the buttery goodness!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
clams
5-6 lbs (cleaned and soaked)
water
1 gallon (for soaking and steaming)
kosher salt
1/3 cup (dissolved in water)
cornmeal
1/3 cup (for soaking)
butter
to dunk (melted)
Instructions
1
In a large container, combine 1 gallon of water with 1/3 cup of kosher salt. Stir until the salt is fully dissolved.
2
Add the clams to the salty water and sprinkle the cornmeal evenly over them. Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator to soak for about 20 minutes. This helps the clams filter out sand and grit.
3
After soaking, drain the clams and rinse them under cold running water.
4
Using a stiff brush, scrub the clams thoroughly to remove any remaining grit from the shells.
5
In a clam steamer or a large pot, add about 1/2 to 1 inch of water and bring it to a rolling boil.
6
Carefully place the cleaned clams on the steamer rack or in a single layer in the pot. Cover securely with a lid.
7
Steam the clams for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the shells have opened completely. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the clams tough.
8
Once cooked, discard any clams that remain closed.
9
Serve the steaming clams warm with melted butter for dipping. Enjoy your coastal feast!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Steamed Maine Clams with Buttery Dip?
It is a simple and rustic seafood dish featuring clams that have been purged of grit, steamed until open, and served with a side of rich melted butter.
How many pounds of clams do I need for this recipe?
This recipe calls for 5 to 6 pounds of clams.
Why should I soak clams in cornmeal?
Soaking clams in a solution with cornmeal helps them filter out and purge any internal sand and grit for a cleaner bite.
How long do the clams need to soak?
The clams should soak in the refrigerator for approximately 20 minutes.
What is the ratio for the soaking solution?
Combine 1 gallon of water with 1/3 cup of kosher salt and 1/3 cup of cornmeal.
Should the soaking water be refrigerated?
Yes, place the container in the refrigerator while the clams are soaking.
Do I need to scrub the clam shells?
Yes, after soaking and rinsing, use a stiff brush to scrub the shells thoroughly to remove any remaining external grit.
How much water is needed for steaming?
Add about 1/2 to 1 inch of water to your steamer or pot.
How long does it take to steam the clams?
Steaming typically takes between 5 to 10 minutes.
How do I know when the clams are finished cooking?
The clams are done once their shells have opened completely.
What should I do if a clam does not open after steaming?
You should discard any clams that remain closed after the steaming process.
What is the best way to serve these clams?
Serve them warm with a small bowl of melted butter for dipping.
Can I use mussels instead of clams?
Yes, this recipe works as a delightful variation using mussels.
What kind of salt should I use for the soaking process?
Kosher salt is recommended for the soaking solution.
What side dish goes well with steamed clams?
Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the leftover buttery goodness.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is considered an easy recipe with simple steps and minimal ingredients.
What happens if I overcook the clams?
Overcooking can make the clams tough and rubbery.
What kind of pot should I use?
A dedicated clam steamer or any large pot with a lid and a steamer rack will work.
Do I need to dissolve the salt before adding clams?
Yes, stir the salt into the water until it is fully dissolved before adding the clams.
How do I prepare the butter for the dip?
Simply melt the butter until it is liquid and serve it in individual dipping bowls.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a fresh, briny taste of the sea complemented by rich, savory melted butter.
How much cornmeal is used?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of cornmeal.
Is this dish suitable for entertaining?
Yes, it is excellent for special gatherings or a casual coastal-themed feast.
What is the purpose of rinsing the clams after soaking?
Rinsing removes the salt and cornmeal solution along with any grit the clams purged.
Can I make this for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, because the active cooking time is very short, it is perfect for a fast meal.
What temperature should the rinsing water be?
Use cold running water to rinse the clams.
Should the steaming pot be covered?
Yes, cover the pot securely with a lid to trap the steam.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: clams, water, kosher salt, cornmeal, and butter.
Does this recipe include nutritional information?
The current data does not specify calories, fat, or other nutritional metrics.
What region is this dish associated with?
This recipe is inspired by the Maine coastline and traditional coastal cuisine.