**Ingredients for Clams and Gourd Soup**
– 1kg clams
– 1 medium-sized gourd
– 400 – 500g pork belly
– Ginger
– Seasonings: fish sauce, pepper, seasoning powder, sugar
**Instructions:**
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
After purchasing the clams, soak them in a basin of salted water with a hint of chili to encourage the clams to expel any sand or grit. Rinse the clams multiple times with water to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Drain the clams and set them aside. Peel and wash the gourd, then cut it into thin slices.
Boil some water in a pot and add a few slices of ginger. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the cleaned clams and cook them.

Cooking Clams for Soup
Step 2: Cook the soup
Add the sliced gourd to the pot, along with one spoon each of fish sauce, seasoning powder, and sugar. Stir well to combine the flavors. Continue cooking until the clams open their shells, then adjust the seasoning to your taste and turn off the heat. Sprinkle some pepper on top, and your soup is ready to be served hot.
Step 3: Enjoy your delicious soup!
This recipe for clam and gourd soup is refreshing and tasty. In addition to this recipe, you can also explore 11 other ways to cook gourd soup that are equally delicious and nourishing for your family.
**Tips for Selecting Fresh Clams:**
When choosing clams, opt for those that are fresh and devoid of any strange odors. A good indicator of freshness is the absence of any foul or unusual smells. Additionally, select clams that feel heavy for their size, as this suggests a generous amount of meat inside.

How to Cook Delicious Clam Soup
A great way to clean clams is by using salt and chili. Simply rinse the clams, then soak them in a bowl of water with a small amount of salt and fresh chili for 1-2 hours. The clams will naturally expel any remaining sand and grime.
Alternatively, you can use a mixture of salt and vinegar. Start by rinsing the clams and then soaking them in diluted salt water for about two hours to encourage the expulsion of sand. Quickly blanch the clams in a pot of boiling water with a small amount of vinegar. This method effectively eliminates any fishy smell and ensures the clams are thoroughly cleaned, making it ideal for stir-fried clam dishes!
When selecting a gourd, opt for one with a vibrant green exterior, free from any bruising or bee stings, as this indicates a fresher and more flavorful vegetable.
The Secret to Sand-Free Shellfish: A 2-Hour Guide to Perfection
“Clams and mussels are a delicacy for many, but these shellfish can be a challenge to prepare. The biggest concern is ensuring they are free of sand and grit. A simple overnight soak in water does the trick, but to expedite the process, one can add a touch of salt, rice water, or even a metal object, which encourages the shellfish to expel the unwanted grit swiftly. It’s a nifty trick to ensure a delightful dining experience.”