National Deep Fried Clams Day

National Deep Fried Clams Day is a celebration of a delicious appetizer made with clams and batter. Mollusks are edible bivalve species that live in either the sea or river bottom. The batter is made from a combination of flour, milk, eggs, and spices. The end result is a tasty treat called New England Barbecue.

History

Mollusks are divided into two large groups – hard shell and soft shell. Clams are usually deep-fried in the second type of shellfish. Clams first appeared on restaurant menus in 1840, served with veal cutlets, liver, and lamb. In roadside restaurants, tartar sauce is often prepared with clams or served simply in a hot dog bun. The dish “fried clams” first appeared at the beginning of the 20th century. Lawrence Henry “Chubby” Woodman is credited as the creator of this snack. He first prepared it in his establishment in Essex, Massachusetts in the summer of 1916. He became famous for deep-fried potatoes and then shellfish caught from the Essex River.

Interesting facts

• Woodman used cornmeal and milk to make the batter.
• Mollusks have no eyes, nose, but only paws which they use to burrow into the sand from enemies.
• It takes about 25-28 months for a mollusk to reach a marketable size.
• The oldest mollusk discovered by scientists lived for 410 years.
• There are more than 150 types of edible mollusks in the world.
• Clams can reach up to 4 feet in size.

How to take part

To celebrate National Deep Fried Clams Day, visit a fish restaurant and order a portion of fried clams. If possible, try to experiment with new recipes and sauces. For an extra special experience, visit Essex and check out Woodman’s Restaurant.

When is National Deep Fried Clams Day Celebrated in 2023?

National Deep Fried Clams Day is devoted to celebrating cheerfulness and fun. It happens annually on November the 1st.

Observations