kelolalaut.com - Cleaning clams properly is important to ensure they are safe to eat and to remove any sand or grit that may be present. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean clams:

1.    Choose fresh clams
When buying clams, select ones that are tightly closed or ones that close when tapped. Avoid clams that are cracked, broken, or don't close when tapped, as they may be dead and unsafe to eat.

2.    Store clams properly
Once you bring the clams home, place them in a bowl or container and cover them with a damp cloth or paper towel. Store them in the refrigerator and use them within 1-2 days.

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3.    Soak clams in cold water
Before cleaning, place the clams in a large bowl or sink filled with cold water. Add salt to the water (about 1/4 cup per quart) to help remove any impurities and encourage the clams to expel sand or grit.

4.    Scrub the shells
Take each clam out of the water and scrub the shells with a stiff brush to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the clams under cold running water.

5.    Check for dead clams 
After scrubbing, inspect each clam. Discard any clams that are open and don't close when tapped, as they are likely dead and not safe to eat.

6.    De-grit the clams
Fill a clean bowl or sink with fresh cold water. Transfer the clams to the clean water, leaving any sand or sediment behind. Let the clams soak for about 20 minutes to allow them to expel any remaining sand or grit.

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7.    Lift clams from the water 
Carefully lift the clams out of the water, being cautious not to disturb the sediment that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl or sink. This will help ensure you don't recontaminate the clams with any sand or grit.

8.    Rinse clams one more time
Rinse the clams one more time under cold running water to remove any traces of sediment or sand.

9.    Use or store clams
Once the clams are cleaned, they are ready to be used in your recipe or stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them. Place them in a clean container, cover them, and keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them within 1-2 days.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your clams are clean, safe to eat, and free of any unwanted grit or sand. Enjoy your delicious clams!

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