Part 2/9:
The foundation of a good Clams Casino is fresh, clean clams. In this tutorial, little neck clams, a common variety especially in the Northeast, are used. These clams are typically available at fish markets or specialty stores like Whole Foods. To ensure they're free of sand, the first step is purging them.
How to Purge Clams:
Place the clams in a large container of salted water—about 3.5% salinity, mimicking seawater. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, during which they'll open slightly and release any sand inside. Agitate gently to dislodge sand. Then, drain and rinse thoroughly. If you notice a lot of sand settling at the bottom, repeat the process with fresh water until the clams are sand-free. This step is crucial for a clean final dish.