Когда: 31 марта
Где отмечается: США
"National Clams on the Half Shell Day" is celebrated on March 31st in the United States, honoring one of the most beloved seafood delicacies – clams served on the half shell. This day pays tribute to the rich culinary tradition surrounding clams, a popular dish enjoyed by seafood enthusiasts across the nation.
Clams are a type of shellfish found in saltwater and freshwater environments around the world. They are prized for their tender, succulent meat and are enjoyed in various culinary preparations, from soups and stews to pasta dishes and, of course, served raw on the half shell.
The origins of National Clams on the Half Shell Day are somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have emerged as a way to celebrate the arrival of spring and the reopening of clamming season in many coastal regions of the United States. As the weather warms up, seafood lovers eagerly anticipate the opportunity to indulge in fresh, locally sourced clams.
One of the most iconic ways to enjoy clams is by serving them on the half shell. This preparation involves shucking the clams and presenting them on a bed of ice, often accompanied by lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and other condiments. Eating clams on the half shell is not only a delicious culinary experience but also a social one, as it is often enjoyed in the company of friends and family at seafood restaurants, beachside picnics, and backyard gatherings.
Clams on the half shell are not only delicious but also nutritious. They are low in fat and calories and rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Additionally, clams are a sustainable seafood choice, as they are abundant in many coastal areas and can be harvested responsibly to ensure the long-term health of clam populations and the marine environment.
In addition to being a tasty treat, clams hold cultural significance in many coastal communities across the United States. They have been a staple of traditional coastal cuisine for centuries, with indigenous peoples harvesting and consuming clams long before the arrival of European settlers. Today, clams continue to play a prominent role in regional cuisines, from New England clam chowder to Southern-style clam boils.
Celebrating National Clams on the Half Shell Day is not only an opportunity to indulge in delicious seafood but also a chance to appreciate the natural bounty of the ocean and the culinary traditions that have evolved around it. Whether enjoyed at a fancy seafood restaurant or a casual backyard barbecue, clams on the half shell are sure to delight the taste buds and bring people together in celebration of good food and good company. So, on March 31st, raise a shell and join in the festivities honoring this beloved seafood delicacy.
