Celebrating the Fourth of July isn’t just about getting the best spot at the fireworks show or making sure your beer cooler is stocked, it’s about the food. While burgers, dogs and potato salad are go-to staples, if you really want to impress your guests, and have some fun, it’s all about the clam bake. The classic flavors of fresh seafood, corn and potatoes are the all American one pot meal.
Classic Clam Bake
Ingredients:
1 – 1 ¼ lb Live Maine Lobster
12 Steamers or Little Neck Clams
12 Mussels
8 Baby Yukon or Dutch Potatoes
1 Ear Corn (Shucked)
1 Clam/Mesh Bag (You can find this in your local grocery store)
Optional: Old Bay Seasoning or Paprika
Method:
The only tricky part about a clam bake is layering the ingredients. Place the potatoes at the bottom of the pot, since they take the longest to cook. Next place the corn and top that off with the shellfish.
Cover the ingredients with water, season with salt and boil for 12 minutes, or until the clams begin to open. Drain, and serve with clarified butter and lemons.
If you like a little spice, throw in a bit of Old Bay Seasoning and a pinch or two of Paprika into the water before it boils for some heat!
