What Is a Clam Belly

Belly – The belly (the most tender part of the clam) is the soft, round center of the clam. Strip – Clam strips refer to the loose hanging piece under the belly. Neck (Siphon) The neck is actually the chewy and kinda gross part that protrudes outside of the clam.

What is the difference between clam strips and clam bellies?

The belly is the tender, soft center of the clam that makes up the primary “meat.” Furthermore, the strip is the hanging piece that lies under the belly. Lastly, the siphon, or neck, is the chewy, sometimes dark, portion of the clam that protrudes outside the shell.

What kind of clams are whole belly clams?

While many varieties of clams are available on the market, whole belly clams for frying typically come from a select type known as soft-shell clams. Also referred to as long-neck or Ipswich clams, they are removed from their shell with a focus on keeping the belly joined to the neck.