Fast And Easy To Make Lobster Clambake
August 21st, 2008 by authorThe clambake dates back to the days of the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Settlers witnessed Native Americans cooking seafood over hot stones and seaweed and thus the famous New England clambake was born. The Lobster clambake has become a summer tradition not only in New England but also all over the country. Now, with the Internet, you can have Maine live lobster shipped from New England to anywhere in the United States.
Live Lobsters can come in many sizes. The smallest lobsters are called chickens, and weigh between 1 and 1.25 pounds. This type of lobsters are perfect for people with small appetites or to be served alongside another main course. For the average appetite, you will want to select 1.25-pound "Quarter" or 1.50-pound "Half" lobsters. These lobsters are larger than the chick and will provide a hearty meal.
There are many kinds of shellfish and several different types of clams as well. Any shellfish will go great with lobster bisque, but to be as authentic as possible you need to find New England steamer clams. The steamer clam is large and has a softer shell. About 1 pound of clam is recommended for every person.
New England clambakes are most often served with corn on the cob and red bliss potatoes. They add to the delicious distinct flavor and presentation of the clambake. Both can be steamed, boiled or grilled in a similar fashion to the lobsters and steamers.
Clambakes have historically been cooked in holes dug in the sand with seaweed and hot stones. While this makes a nice presentation, the truth is that our typical ovens and pots do a much better job. The recommended way to cook live lobsters is to have them steamed. You’re going to need a large pot, a steamer basket, and some salt.
Have the large pot filled with an approximate 1 and inches of water, and for every quart of water, add a tablespoon of salt. Before placing the lobsters in the steamer basket, bring the water to a boil first. And then place the steamer basket in the pot.
Lobsters which weigh about a pound should be cooked for 12 minutes while those which weigh a pound a half are ready after about 15 minutes. Periodically check the pot to make sure that the water has not boiled off, if it has, add more water while cooking the lobsters. Then remove the lobsters one by one and pull off one of their small legs. To test if the meat is fully cooked, break open the leg.
Adding shrimp, mussels and clam chowder will also make your clambake a delightful feast. Fresh vegetables will also enhance your presentation with a more healthy look. Your lovely lobster clambake is now all set to be enjoyed by your party guests.
By Sherry Shantel