アサリ

アサリ is one of the most common shellfish in Japanese cuisine. It is a small bivalve found in tidal flats and widely available at supermarkets.

Writing

Usually written in katakana. The kanji 浅蜊(あさり) exists but is rarely used.

Common dishes

• アサリの味噌汁(みそしる): clam miso soup
• アサリの酒蒸(さかむ)し: sake-steamed clams
• ボンゴレ: vongole (clam pasta)

Preparation

Before cooking, clams are soaked in salt water for 砂抜(すなぬ)き (sand removal). This step is essential and commonly mentioned in recipes.

Cultural note

潮干狩(しおひが)り (clam digging at low tide) is a popular spring leisure activity in Japan, especially for families.