National New England Clam Chowder Day

National New England Clam Chowder Day is January 21. For those who are not sure, New England clam chowder is white not red, in contrast to Manhattan clam chowder which is red due to the tomatoes in the New York version. There are many varieties of clam chowder with an endless number of secret recipes. The traditional approach to the New England variety includes clams, cream or milk, potatoes, onions and salt pork or bacon.

While it is not clear how this national holiday began, it is generally accepted that clam chowder originated from the NE coastal area of the U.S. during the 1800's. Initially chowder recipes were of made fish not clams. The first American cookbook to list a chowder recipe was Amelia Simmons's American Cookery (1800) and the recipe called for fish. During this time period chowder was a main food dish for people living in New England. It is believed that this dish arose from fishermen utilizing some of their catch for their daily meals. During the latter 1800's, many variations of chowder had established themselves across the different New England regions, where each region became known for their particular slant on chowder. Today clam chowder is an established icon of American cooking and is made all over the world. Just the mention of this dish can cause debates and discussions abut the "proper" recipe that can last for years. http://www.foodtimeline.org/foodsoups.html http://whatscookingamerica.net/History/Chowder/NewEnglandChowder.htm

Restaurants may offer specials and promotions celebrating National New England Clam Chowder Day. Some may serve bowls of New England clam chowder for a reduced price or a BOGO type of offer in celebration of this national holiday.