Atlantic razor clams are the best-kept secret in the world of shellfish. Everyone knows and loves the bivalve clams of pasta dishes, half-shells, and clambakes. Razor clams are different. They are oblong in shape, growing up to 6 inches in length. In some cases, including the siphon, they can measure over 3 feet long! Razor clams, specifically Atlantic razor clams, are often mistaken with Pacific razor clams, which are more beefy and egg-shaped, while Atlantic razor clams are longer and more rectangular, resembling a straight razor.
Atlantic razor clams inhabit sandy or muddy beaches, estuaries and bays. They can burrow quickly and even have the ability to swim! During low tide, razor clams are revealed by a keyhole-shaped impression in the sand. If the razor clam becomes disturbed, it can shoot a stream of water out of the hole.
Razor clams are delicious. They are sweet, with low salinity. They are also versatile to cook. They are often steamed in their shell, or their meats can be breaded and fried, baked, broiled, or even made into ceviche. Citrus, simple salt and pepper, or even a spicy chile sauce will pair well with this mollusk to make a phenomenal dish.
*stay tuned for our razor clam recipe tomorrow!