Cooked clams belong to the sea food family, and sea food is known to be very vulnerable to food poisoning. Therefore, it is important to know the shelf life of cooked clams to avoid catastrophic incidences. The fridge is the best method for storing clams. This is because it helps to retain their texture and flavour. However, the downside of the using the fridge is that it doesn’t preserve them for a longer period of time. Cooked clams last for 4 days in the fridge. Below are a few steps you need to take when storing your clams.
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How to store cooked clams in the fridge
NB: this is the most recommended method of storing leftover cooked clams. This is mainly due to that fact that fridge helps to preserve the texture of the clams, even though cooked clams last in the fridge for only 4 days.
When storing cooked clams in the fridge you need to start by ensuring that they are at room temperature. The next step is to take the cooked clams and place them in the in an air tight container. Place them into the fridge. Leftover cooked clams last for 4 days in the fridge.
How to store cooked clams in freezer
NB: this method helps to extend the shelf life of cooked clams. However, cooked clams that are stored in the freezer become tough and rubbery. You will not really enjoy them.
Store cooked clams in the freezer using a container
NB: remove the clam shells before freezing the cooked clams.
To store leftover cooked clams in the freezer start by draining out any excess liquid or marinade from the cooked clam meat. The next thing is to place the cooked clams inside an air tight plastic container. Leave about ½ an inch or head space. This is because clams tend to expand during the freezing process. So if you do not leave that head space, the container might break during the whole freezing process. You can label the container with the date in which you are placing the cooked clams in the freezer. This will help you to recall when they are most likely to expire.
Store cooked clams in the freezer using a freezer bag
NB: when using this method also remove the clam shells before freezing the cooked clams.
If you do not have a container to store your cooked clams then you can always opt for the freezer bag. Start by draining excess moisture from the cooked clams then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure you choose a large freezer bag that has about several inches of headroom between the zip seal and the cooked clam. Before sealing the freezer bag, take out as much air as possible from the freezer bag. This helps to prevent freezer burn. The last step is to place the cooked clams in the freezer.
NB: cooked clams last in the freezer for 3 months. Therefore, you need to eat them within that stipulated time frame.
Tips for storing cooked clams in the fridge or freezer
- Do not keep cooked clams at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. This is because you will be exposing them to bacteria and they might start to turn bad.
- Always store cooked clams in an air tight container. This is because if they are exposed to air, it might lead to premature spoilage.
How to use frozen cooked clams
Frozen cooked clams can be used to make a variety of dishes. You can incorporate them in soups or simply use them to make a chowder. You will definitely enjoy it. To use your frozen cooked clams you need to thaw them in the fridge. This will make them easier for you to use. Avoid thawing cooked clams at room temperature as this exposes them to bacteria.
How to reheat clams
Reheat cooked clams in the microwave
NB: this is the easiest and fastest method for reheating cooked clams.
When using the microwave to reheat cooked clams you need to start by finding a microwave safe bowl. Add the cooked clams to the bowl together with about ½ an inch of water. Cover the bowl with a wet paper towel or cloth then place it into the microwave. Reheat the cooked clams for 45 seconds. When the 45 second time mark has passed you should give the clams a nice stir then reheat them for another 45 seconds. When you are satisfied with the temperature of your clams remove them and serve immediately. You should not reheat cooked clams for a very long period of time as this can compromise the texture of the cooked clams. They will turn tough and rubbery.
Reheat cooked clams on the stove
NB: this method works well if you are adding the cooked clams to a broth or dish.
When using this method you need to start by heating up your broth or dish on a stove. When it is ready add the clams and let them reheat for a few seconds before removing them. The temperature in the broth or dish should be warm enough to heat to up the cooked clams.
How to tell if your cooked clams have turned bad
In order to tell whether your cooked clams have turned bad you can always smell them. If they have an unpleasant smell you need to throw them away. This is mainly because they can lead to sickness. The other sign you need to take note of is the texture and appearance of the cooked clams. If the cooked clams have a slimy consistency to them then you need to throw them away.
Conclusion
It is important to know how long cooked clams last in the fridge. This is because they lead to food poisoning when consumed whilst they have turned bad. The article has noted that cooked clams should be stored in the fridge for 4 days. Therefore you should always make sure you eat them before the stipulated time frame. If you want to extend the shelf life of you cooked clams then the freezer is the best option, although it sacrifices the texture of the cooked clams.
