By Keo Kounila & Tha Piseth

Clams, a type of fresh-water shellfish, are one of Cambodian’s favourite staples. On hot sunny days, a line of carts loaded with red spicy fresh-water shells can be seen pushed by Cambodian vendors. People do not have them during rainy season since rain can spoil the quality and taste. Cambodians like eating clams that have been boiled, dried and blended with salt or red spice. They also use clams to make other kinds of food—boiled clams or friend clams. Dried clams, however, are preferably eaten. Clams in Cambodia can normally be found at the bottom of a river.