These bivalves each offer unique flavors, proving looks aren’t their only difference.
Perhaps you’re planning on doing aFeast of the Seven Fishesor want to prepare a classic cioppino.
What’s the difference between clams vs. mussels?
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Erin T. Spenceris a marine ecologist and science writer.
Shape And Color
The main factor is appearance.
Also their shells are more teardrop-shaped when compared to clams."
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These fibers are referred to as beards.
Size
There are many varieties of each, but clams can grow much larger than mussels.
(Yes, they have gills just like fish.)
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They feed on plankton and other microscopic organisms.
Both cook quite quickly and will pop open when fully cooked and ready to eat.
That said, if either clams or mussels are overcooked, they’ll both be extremely chewy and rubbery.
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Mussels should not be eaten raw.
You’ll also find that clams cost a little more than mussels, but both are affordable.
Mussels are easier to harvest, which is typically reflected in their price.
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Manila
These clams are small, soft, sweet, and have a light briny flavor.
You might also find them labeledasari, which is the Japanese name for this variety.
They’re classically used inpasta dishes, soups, or simply steamed.
There are many types of razor clams, but Pacific razors are one popular variety.
In terms of preparation, you’ll often see them fried or used in chowders.
They can be enjoyed a variety of ways, from steamed to baked.
“They can also be called PEI mussels if harvested from Prince Edward Island.
They’ll have black or brown shells with blue-purple hues.”
Their shells can be a deep blue color, brown, or almost black.
They’re also simply known as New Zealand mussels.
Plump, juicy, and sweet, serve them steamed, in pasta, or stuffed and baked.
Seafood Watch
Spencer recommends visiting the sustainable seafood guide from Monterey Bay Aquarium calledSeafood Watch.
The resource has a color-coded scale to sustainable seafood options, from salmon to mollusks.
The majority of clams and mussels you’ll find in stores are farmed.
A valid concern with farmed seafood is what is used as feed.
Plus, “as they filter their food, they’re making the water cleaner,” Spencer says.
When Is The Best Time To Eat Mussels And Clams?
Can You Substitute Them Equally?
The answer to this question is highly recipe specific.
Clams and mussels are often used in conjunction in many dishes since their flavors complement one another.
This indicates the mollusks are still alive.
If the shells are slightly open, tap them to see if they close.
A live mollusk will close its shell.
If they remain open, discard them.
Both should have a fresh, clean ocean smell that’s not fishy or sulfur-like.
Before cooking, discard any clams or mussels that are already open.
Here’s how to prepare and cook the rest.
Global Invasive Species Database.100 of the World’s Worst Invasive Alien Species.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch.Sustainable clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops guide.
