Fresh Tennen Hamaguri (Japanese Common Orient Clam)

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

Tennen Hamaguri is also called Asian Hard Clam, or Common Orient Clam, and these ones come from the Mie Prefecture in Japan. They arrive to you, fresh, with their whole shells, and are plump, with a firm but delicate texture. They have a nice chewiness to them, and a sweet, umami flavor.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

The Japanese Common Orient Clam, or Tennen Hamaguri, is great for grilling. It can also be used in nigiri sushi (always cooked first, though), as well as in soups, chowders, hot pots, or boiled in sake. A popular way to enjoy it is in Hamaguri Osuimono (Hamaguri Clear Soup).

A GAME OF SHELL

Hamaguri shells are popularly (re)used in the Japanese game, Kai-awase. This game was particularly popular in the Edo era. The objective of the game was to match the shells. The shells are divided into two groups or boxes, and one group is taken to match with the halves from the second group. The insides of the shells would have elaborate paintings, usually scenes from the Tale of Genji and other romance stories.

Storage Instructions

Arrives fresh. Keep refrigerated. Consume within 3 days.