How to cook telline

Telline, also known as tellina or Venetian clams, are small shellfish commonly found in the Mediterranean. These delectable morsels are often used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine and can be enjoyed in various recipes such as pastas, risottos, or even simply steamed. If you’re looking to explore the flavors of the Mediterranean, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook telline.

Step 1: Choosing Fresh Telline
Selecting fresh telline is crucial to ensure a delicious meal. Look for clams with tightly closed shells or those that close when tapped lightly. Avoid any clams with cracked or open shells as they may be spoiled. It is also recommended to purchase live clams from a reputable fishmonger.

Step 2: Cleaning Telline
Before cooking, thoroughly clean the telline to remove any sand or debris. Fill a large bowl or basin with cold water and place the clams inside. Swirl the clams around gently for a few minutes. This process helps them expel any grit or sand within their shells. Rinse them under running water to further clean them.

Step 3: Removing Excess Sand
To ensure that all the sand is removed, you can soak the telline in saltwater for about an hour. Dissolve 1/4 cup of salt in a large bowl of water and add the clams. The saltwater helps the clams release any remaining sand or grit. Afterwards, rinse them thoroughly once again.

Step 4: Cooking Options
Now that your telline are clean, you have several cooking options to choose from based on your preference.

a) Steaming: This is a simple and popular method for cooking telline. Place the clams in a large pot with a small amount of water or wine (about ¼ cup) and cover it with a lid. Steam the clams over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the shells open. Discard any clams that remain closed. Serve the steamed telline with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

b) Pasta: Cooking telline with pasta is a delightful way to enjoy their flavors. Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and chili flakes in olive oil. Add the telline and a splash of white wine. Cover the pan and steam the clams until they open. Mix the cooked pasta with the clam sauce, adding some fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

c) Risotto: Risotto with telline is a creamy and indulgent dish. Sauté minced onion and garlic in a pot with olive oil until translucent. Add the rice and toast it for a few minutes before gradually adding hot vegetable or fish stock. Stir continuously until the rice is almost al dente, then add the clams and a splash of white wine. Continue cooking until the rice is fully cooked and creamy. Finish the risotto with butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.

Step 5: Serving
Regardless of the method you choose, serve the telline immediately while they are hot and fresh. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an aromatic touch. You can also squeeze a wedge of lemon over the dish to enhance the flavors. Crusty bread or a simple side salad can accompany your telline dish for a complete meal.

In conclusion, cooking telline is a delightful culinary adventure that allows you to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether you choose to steam them, toss them with pasta, or incorporate them into a risotto, these small shellfish are sure to impress your taste buds. So, head to your nearest fishmonger, grab some fresh telline, and embark on a journey to create a memorable and delicious meal.