Sunday, September 21, 2008

A Clambake For Christmas - Making Christmas Parties More Fun

By Sherry Shantel


For over a hundred years now, clambakes have made outdoor parties more fun and enjoyable, thanks to the Native Americans who introduced it. They are more popularly known as New England clambakes. And, with the holiday season about to arrive, this great idea for an outdoors party with friends and loved ones would surely make it more exciting.

Originally, clambakes were prepared in a pit wherein a layer of stones are placed on the bottom of it. And on top of these very hot stones, a layer of potatoes, live lobster, clams, and corn husks were laid with fresh seaweed separating the layers.

In order to cook the fresh vegetables and seafood, Native American natives would have a huge fire above the stones and when the fire was reduced to hot ash, they would then start placing the seafood on top of these stones.

You can find many places to order your fresh shellfish for a healthy and enjoyable clam bake. Clambake orders generally come in two different varieties, the standard clambake and the super deluxe clambake. Both normally contain lobster bisque, clam chowder, and supplies you will need to prepare and serve your clambake. Shrimp, mussels, or other fresh seafood are added for the super deluxe clambake.

The super deluxe clambake for Christmas is typically for bigger gatherings as it has more types of seafood and many partygoers will be able to find something they would like to feast on. With this type, you will be assured that you will never run out of food.

Modern methods nowadays have indeed replaced the old cooking preparation of clambakes and it includes convenience as you can now have a clambake prepared over the stove or on the grill. But if you have a fire pit, that would be another good option as it follows the more traditional way which still makes the clambake meal very distinct and delicious at the same time. In addition, there will be less cleaning up needed when you opt for a fun outdoor party.

A clambake meal is also very nutritious and healthy as it not only contains low-calorie seafood but fat-free vegetables as well. This would surely make your guests clamoring for more as it is considered a better alternative to the not-so-healthy foods that party throwers often offer.

Talk about a real conversation starter - consider hosting a classic clambake for Christmas during the outdoor party season. The healthier clambake is in fact, superior to junk food or take-out and is definitely more interesting.

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