Soft-Shell Clams

Also known as longneck clams, soft-shell clams are a staple in New England but are found on the Pacific coast as well. They are also known as Ipswich clams because Ipswich, Massachusetts, is a major processing center for soft-shell clams. They can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and have relatively long siphons. They are gapers, which means they gap when they are above the sand and not buried, and this can make them sandy. Be sure to clean them before cooking. Serve smaller soft-shell clams either deep-fried or steamed and accompanied with their steaming liquid and butter. Use larger clams for chowder.