How to Cook Steamers: A.K.A. Softshell Clams, A Super Easy Recipe

This video shows you how to prepare and cook (Steam) Steamer Clams, also known as Softshell Clams. Although the shells in these clams are not really soft, they are much thinner than those of hardshell clams. In this video I prepare and steam the clams while at the same time preparing some butter and broth to dip the clams in while eating and enjoying them. The preparation time is about three hours however, the actual cooking time is only about 12 minutes. You will need to first have the clams soak in saltwater (1/3 cup of salter per quart of water) for 2 to 3 hours to ensure all sediment to include mud and sand particles are expelled from the clams. Then you rinse the clams and steam them in fresh water for 10 to 12 minutes in 1 inch of water until they open. I add a couple strands of saffron for additional flavor but this is not at all necessary. After 10 to 12 minutes, discard any clams that do not open. While the clams are steaming, you can melt some butter for dipping. If you want, you can strain the butter to remove the undissolved solids to make clarified butter. Also, make sure to collect the broth for use as another dipping option. Enjoy!