A clambake is possibly my favorite meal ever! It’s impossibly simple, serves a crowd, and it looks so impressive. We serve it every year at our beach house for the Fourth of July. It’s always a hit (with the exception of one year when some people showed up with another guest and then told us they didn’t like shellfish - so they sat on the side and watched us eat - awkwardly).
I usually make this for a crowd. It’s a really simple way to feed a crowd. But it’s also a really fun weeknight dinner for the family! In the summer it’s a fun way to make a regular weeknight dinner seem a little more fun. Also, you don’t actually need plates.
When we make clambake for the crowd, we usually just roll out freezer paper on the table. When the clams have opened up, then we just pour it out on the table (after draining of course!) Add a few bowls of melted butter and you don’ need any other dishes! Or you can use dishes and be more civilized. Your call.
Clambake
Serves 4-6
2 cups water
1-12 ounce pale ale
2 pounds fingerling potatoes
1 pound kielbasa, cut into two inch lengths
2 lemons, cut into rounds
14 ounce bag frozen pearl onions
4 ears of corn
6 cloves garlic
2 pounds clams
2 pounds mussels
2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
¼ cup butter, melted
1 loaf crusty bread
STEP 1
In a large pot bring to a boil beer and water with kielbasa and potatoes.
STEP 2
Once it’s boiling, add corn, onions, one of the sliced up lemons and garlic. Cover and cook for five minutes.
STEP 3
Add clams and mussels to the top. Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning over everything. Cover and cook until clams open up. About five minutes.
STEP 4
Drain off liquid then pour the pot out on a table or in a large bowl. Serve with butter on the side and a loaf of bread.
How to pull it off
1. Prepare all ingredients – cut the kielbasa, shuck the corn, etc.
2. Roll out freezer paper on the table and have paper towels, wipes, and extra napkins standing by
3. Make the clambake
4. While waiting for the clams to open up, melt the butter.
5. Pour out the clambake. Enjoy!
Gin & Lillet Cocktail
The perfect refreshing cocktail for clams and crab on the beach!
