[header] How to make new england clam chowder [title] Wash the clams. [step] Rinse the fresh clams with cold running water to wash away any sand or grit. You may have to rub the shells with your fingers to get them completely clean. 
[substeps] Look over the clams before you cook them. If any of the shells are open while they are still raw, discard those; this means they are not fresh.