Steamer Clam
Mya arenaria (Ipswich Clam, Pissa Clam)
Mya arenaria (Ipswich Clam, Pissa Clam)
“Steamers” are small, thin-shelled clams prized for their sweet, briny liquor and tender meat. They’re classic bucket-of-clams seafood—ideal for simple steaming, dipping in broth and butter, and serving alongside corn, potatoes, and other shellfish.
Range
New England
Method of Capture
Hand Rake
Seasonality
Year-round, depending on tides and rainfall amounts
Size Range
1.5 to 3 inches
Sustainability Consideration:
Like many clams, steamers are filter feeders and can provide environmental benefits when farms and wild beds are managed well:
- They filter and clarify water, helping improve local water quality.
- Aquaculture typically uses no feed, fertilizer, or chemicals—clams eat what the bay provides.
- Responsible harvest and careful monitoring of water quality are key to both food safety and long-term bed health.
Monterey Fish focuses on producers and harvesters that follow strict testing and handling standards for safe, clean shellfish.
Flavor & Texture:
Steamer clams are all about comfort and sweetness:
- Flavor: Sweet, briny, and very “oceany” without being harsh
- Texture: Tender neck and body with a slight chew, plus lots of flavorful clam liquor in the shell
If you enjoy simple pots of mussels or littlenecks, steamers sit in the same family but with their own classic New England-style charm.
Seafood Cooking Tips
As the name suggests, the best way to enjoy them is simple and quick:
- Purge & rinse – Soak briefly in cold, lightly salted water and rinse to help remove sand.
- Steam – Place in a pot with a little water, wine, or beer, plus aromatics (garlic, herbs, onion); cover and steam just until the shells open.
- Serve with broth & butter – Traditionally served with a cup of hot cooking broth to rinse each clam, then dipped in melted butter.
- Add to pasta or soup – Once steamed, the meats can be added to simple pastas or light chowders for extra sweetness.
Discard any clams that don’t open during cooking, and serve right away while they’re hot and juicy.
Want This On Your Menu or Table?
For current availability, pricing, and prep ideas, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to help you decide what will work best for your menu or home kitchen.
