Vegetarian Means Vegan, Right?

Actually vegetarians tend to differ from what Vegans consider themselves to be. The exact reasons for why, evade me at the moment.

I eat plenty of vegetables but also enjoy eggs so I think this means I may be a vegetarian but I am not a vegan because eggs are not on their menu. I need to watch my calories and weight.

Veganism, if I may, seems to be more like a religion than just a healthy eating regime. I think the term is applied to not only eggs but even to wearing things that may have once been alive, like leather.

I have no feelings on this one way or another and think our life choices are just that, our life choices.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Homemade Lobster Clambake

By Sherry Shantel

The origin of the clambake started in Plymouth, Massachusetts where settlers witness the Native Americans cooking seafood over seaweeds and hot stones. The method of cooking is now called the popular New England clambake which is not only a tradition in the specific area but has also become popular all over the country. Thanks to the Internet, you can now order Maine live lobster for your Lobster clambake anytime, anywhere.

The main stars of the clambake are of course, the lobsters. They come in many sizes - the smallest kinds which weigh around 1 - 1.25 pounds are called the chickens, 1.25-pound lobsters are called Quarter, and 1.20-pound are Half lobsters. Those people who have small appetites will be glad with chicken types to be served with another main course. However, for those who prefer to have a hearty meal, they'll be happier with Quarter or Half lobsters.

There are also different types of shellfish and clams. But you don't have to worry as any type of shellfish will go well with lobster bisque. But if you want your clambake to be truly authentic, you might want to go with New England steamer clams. These types have soft shells and larger sizes. For every person, about 1 pound of clam is recommended.

Corn on the cob and red bliss potatoes add to the delicious distinct flavor and yummy presentation of authentic New England clambakes that would be surely hard to resist. Both can be boiled, steamed or even grilled just like you do with the lobsters and steamers.

Clambakes have historically been cooked in holes dug in the sand with seaweed and hot stones. While this makes a nice presentation, the truth is that our typical ovens and pots do a much better job. The recommended way to cook live lobsters is to have them steamed. You're going to need a large pot, a steamer basket, and some salt.

Next, pour 1 and inches of water to the large pot and for every quart of water, add an approximate 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a boil and then put the lobsters and steamer basket inside the pot.

One-pounder lobsters should be cooked for approximately 12 minutes. A pound and a half lobsters should be cooked for around 15 minutes. Check the pot periodically to ensure that all the water has not boiled off and add more water while the lobsters are cooking if needed. Remove the lobsters and pull off one of their small legs. Break open the leg and test the meat to ensure that it is already cooked.

For a more wonderful and tastier feast, you can opt to add mussels, shrimp, and clam chowder to your clambake. Add fresh vegetables for a more healthy presentation. Your homemade lobster clambake is now ready to be enjoyed by you and your loved ones.

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