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New England Clambake - A Holiday Treat To Remember

by Matthew Lewis

A New England clambake is a fun and festive tradition. These gatherings are usually held outside along the coast. Traditionally, they are help directly on the beach; however, lately some innovative families and friends have held the parties in backyards or parks.

It's a party, a time for interacting with others. The festivities allow you to share your happy mood with friends, family and coworkers. Especially during the holidays, a clam bake provides a fun and friendly way to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year's Eve.

Traditional party food consists of an assortment of meats, but mainly seafood. Combined into the seafood feast are delights such as clams, oysters, lobster, and scallops. Additionally other items like corn, potatoes, and sausage are added. Some families even add carrots, celery, and onions.

Everything is prepared in a hole shoveled out of the beach. The heat is provided by rocks or comparable material placed at the lowest level. A layer of wet kelp is then placed above that. Frequently, a layer of foil or a grill is placed over the wet layer. Finally, the food is placed over that. The heat from the rocks combined with the water serve as a medium, cooking the food in steam.

From region to region, the difference in a New England clambake differs minutely. Most of the differences center around what type of seafood is in it. Seafood specialties differ from region to region. Some regions use quahogs or mussels for their clam bakes, while others use lobster and clams almost exclusively.

When planning a clam bake, it is important to check on any rules and regulations for beach use. Most beaches require a permit for gatherings after hours, especially if they involve a fire. Some beaches have strict bans against fire altogether, so the food may need to be prepared in an alternate place.

Often, hiring a caterer can solve any of these problems. They will obtain all the necessary permits. They will plan the party, bring and cook the food. You will only be responsible for the invitations. Caterers can also supply the appropriate beverages. A nice supply of non-alcoholic choices is necessary, as well as beer and possibly wine.

In the end, a New England clambake might be the perfect way to celebrate the holidays. For many families, it is already a holiday tradition. If you've never experienced one, you might find that it becomes your family's newest way to celebrate any momentous occasion.

There is nothing more festive than a New England clambake. Such events are almost always held outdoors in coastal areas. Clambakes tended to be held on the beach traditionally, but in recent years, some families and other gatherings choose to hold these parties in parks and backyards. A clam bake is great for the holiday season, and a terrific option for many different types of celebrations, including New Year's, Hanukkah, and Christmas. Traditional food at the party consists of a variety of meats, mostly seafood. Clams, lobster meat, scallops, and oysters are all steamed in a pit. Other items, such as sausage, corn and potatoes join the seafood feast.

Published December 22nd, 2007

Filed in Family