About Maine
Maine lobster rolls, the official sandwich of the state of Maine, are made from simple and fresh ingredients. While the history of the lobster roll remains unclear, the popularity is undeniable. These sandwiches, composed of fresh lobster meat, mayonnaise and a hot dog roll, are alone worth a trip to the Pine Tree State.
History
Unfortunately, there is very little documentation on who created the first lobster roll. Much to the chagrin of Maine residents, there is evidence the decadent sandwich was invented by a man named Harry Perry, who lived in Milford, Connecticut. However, the Maine Lobster Promotion Council claims the sandwich was invented by a Scarborough, Maine, native. A man named Bill Bailey insisted his grandmother began the trend by selling leftover out of her kitchen window in 1915. By the 1930s it had taken the form of a mayonnaise-based salad, and eventually was sold on bread as a sandwich. One of the few theories most historians can agree on is that the lobster roll could not have been invented before 1912, which was the year hot dog rolls became mass-produced.
Lobster Shacks
Another fact most lobster roll lovers can agree on is the best place to enjoy a Maine lobster roll is at a lobster shack. Lobster shacks are down-to-earth eateries. There is rarely any indoor seating; if seating is offered at all, it is usually at an outdoor picnic table. These shacks offer the most authentic, fresh, finger-licking lobster. To find a lobster shack, drive up the shore, and look for the huge line outside a run-down shanty. Some of the most popular lobster shacks in Maine include: Red's Eats in Wiscasset; the Clam Shack in Kennebunkport; and Bagaduce Lunch in Brooksville.
Chain Restaurants
L.L. Bean heiress Linda Bean has announced plans to brand lobster restaurant franchises throughout the United States. Her intent is to bring the authentic sandwich to other areas of the country outside of New England, while offering a healthier option to fast food restaurants. The lobster rolls are offered in Maine test locations for $14, however, the prices are expected to be upward of $20 in states where the Maine lobster will need to be shipped to, and stored.
Recipe
Although lobster rolls are considered expensive delicacies, the price is a result of the fresh ingredients, not the secret recipe. Lobster rolls are simple to make at home, with a fresh shipment of Maine lobster. Simply take the tail and claw meat from the lobster, add a dollop of mayonnaise to taste, salt and pepper, a little celery and a dash of cayenne pepper. Serve on a toasted hot dog roll.
Fun Facts
On June 7, 2009, a culinary team will combine forces to create the "World's Largest Lobster Roll." This massive lunch will include 45 lbs. of lobster meat and 4 gallons of mayonnaise. The lobster salad will be shoveled into a hot dog bun the size of a flat bed truck. The lobster roll will be judged by the Guinness Book of World Records before it is auctioned off to raise money for local swim teams.
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