The New England clambake goes back in time to the Native American Indians in the Cape Cod area. Clambakes were included as part of their sacred ceremonies, and when white settlers arrived they adopted the delicious method of cooking seafood. A clambake is usually held on special occasions like New Years Eve along the New England coastline.

Digging a hole in the sand, approximately 2 by 4 feet with a depth of 1-1/2 feet is the first step to preparing your clambake. Next place smooth stones from the beach on which to build your fire. Add more stones and keep the fire going for two to three hours to heat the stones.Never heard of this before? Get up to speed here. Once the stones are heated through you can remove the coals and ashes and cover them with wet seaweed. Quickly layer your seafood and vegetables on the seaweed and cover with a wet cloth followed by more seaweed. Cover everything with a wet tarp and steam your food for at least an hour. Once the potatoes on top are done you will know your seafood is ready to enjoy.

A clambake can also be done in your back yard using a metal can or a steamer in your kitchen. If you just want to enjoy a clambake without the work you could hire a caterer who specializes in New England clambakes.

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