Clams are at their most delicious and nutritious in summer. [Photo/WeChat account: hafbwx]

According to an old saying in Laobagang town in Hai'an, Nantong, summer is the best season to eat clams, as they are at their most delicious and nutritious during this time.

Clam is considered among the tastiest foods and called "Chahe" in the Hai'an dialect. When the tide recedes, people can walk on the beach to loosen up the sand and the clams will begin to reveal themselves. The clam shells remain open while in the sand, but will close when picked up.

After being cleaned and shelled, locals prefer to fry the clam with Chinese chives. The clam is easily cooked and needs to be stir-fried to ensure taste.

Some people like to boil the clams, adding green onions, ginger, cooking wine and salt. This simple cooking method preserves the original taste of clams.

They can be streamed with egg as well, which is a popular dish. Locals will also mince the clam and make omelets after adding egg whites and flour.