Sunday, November 23, 2008

New England Style Clambake - A Unique and Healthy Feast

By Sherry Shantel

A New England style clambake, which is a traditional celebration in New England, is gaining popularity outside the region for its being healthy and unique at the same time. Originally practiced by Native Americans, the cooking method indeed quickly became tradition.

Nowadays, the popularity of the New England clambake has spread all over the coast, and inland areas as well. This unique gathering idea actually started as a way to prepare the bountiful seafood that the fishermen caught from the Atlantic Ocean.

Traditionally, seafood at the New England clambake is usually steamed but some people may prefer to cook it by grill. Food during the celebration often comprises of live lobster or lobster bisque, scallops, shrimp, shellfish, mussels, clams and clam chowder, potatoes, onions, corn on the cob, and carrots. The steaming process can take no more than a few hours to an entire day which depends on the taste. Once the steaming is done, the food is served best with butter and lemon wedges.

So what makes people want to hold a clambake? Firstly, it is a wonderful unique idea. Guests may find it somewhat tediously boring if they kept attending the same old parties. One may think that party throwers are out of ideas. However, with the new clambake celebration idea, family, friends, and guests would sure be excited to attend.

The main dish is seafood, which is known for its low amounts of calories and fats. Your meal is steamed, not breaded or fried, which further reduces its calories. Another enticing fact about a New England clambake is that, unlike other popular functions such as barbecues and cookouts, the food served is considered healthy. Finally, the side dishes are usually vegetables which is indeed very nutritious. Even people on strict diets will surely find something to eat.

Your clambake can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it. The simplest clambake meal can be prepared in a home steamer indoors, but does not truly capture the proper atmosphere. The best clambakes are usually held outdoors, where your guests can see and possibly participate in the cooking.

The success of the New England style clambake has been confirmed over generations. It can successfully be adapted to any celebration, whatever the size and style. A super deluxe clambake will not only place you in the mainstream of this historical tradition, but also earn you a place in the fond memories of your friends and guests.

With the New England style clambake, your partying is much more fun than ever before - and you don't even have to be in New England to enjoy it. Thanks to the modern technology, specifically the Internet, as it made delivery of fresh seafood conveniently possible. Now, you can have the best clambake festival ever, anytime and anywhere you want it. - 15634

About the Author: