Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Homemade Lobster Clambake

By Sherry Shantel

The 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.

As you may already know, lobsters may come in many different sizes. The smallest of these kinds are called chickens, they weigh around 1-1.25 pounds. These types are usually served along with another main course and are perfect for guests with small appetites. However, for those guests with average to large appetites, 1.25-pounder lobsters or Quarters and 1.50-pounder lobsters called Half, are just perfect.

There are also different types of shellfish and clams. But you don't have to worry as any type of shellfish will go well with lobster bisque. But if you want your clambake to be truly authentic, you might want to go with New England steamer clams. These types have soft shells and larger sizes. For every person, about 1 pound of clam is recommended.

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.

One-pounder lobsters should be cooked for approximately 12 minutes. A pound and a half lobsters should be cooked for around 15 minutes. Check the pot periodically to ensure that all the water has not boiled off and add more water while the lobsters are cooking if needed. Remove the lobsters and pull off one of their small legs. Break open the leg and test the meat to ensure that it is already cooked.

For a more wonderful and tastier feast, you can opt to add mussels, shrimp, and clam chowder to your clambake. Add fresh vegetables for a more healthy presentation. Your homemade lobster clambake is now ready to be enjoyed by you and your loved ones.

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