Lobster roll facts for kids
Lobster roll served at Steamers Seafood Market in Newton, Massachusetts
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| Type | Sandwich |
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| Place of origin | United States Canada |
| Region or state | New England, United States Atlantic region, Canada |
| Main ingredients |
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A lobster roll is a super tasty sandwich that comes from New England in the United States and Atlantic Canada. It's made with yummy lobster meat served inside a grilled bun, often like a hot dog bun.
Sometimes, the lobster is mixed with butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Other times, especially in New England, people use mayonnaise instead of butter. You might also find small pieces of celery or scallions in it. People usually eat lobster rolls with potato chips or French fries on the side.
Contents
The History of Lobster Rolls
Where Did the Lobster Roll Start?
The first lobster roll was probably made around 1929. It was served as a warm dish at a restaurant called Perry's in Milford, Connecticut. From there, it became popular along the coast of Connecticut.
In Connecticut, if the sandwich is served warm, it's called a "lobster roll." If it's served cold, it's often called a "lobster salad roll."
Lobster Rolls in Maine and Beyond
By the 1970s, lobster meat heated in melted butter was a popular dish at roadside stands in places like Maine. Today, lobster rolls are strongly connected to Maine. However, you can also find them in other New England states and on Eastern Long Island, where people often catch lobsters.
How Maine Makes Its Lobster Rolls
In Maine, lobster rolls are usually served on a special New England-style hot dog bun. This bun is split on the top instead of the side. It also has flat sides, which are perfect for grilling.
The lobster meat in Maine is usually served cold, not warm. Mayonnaise is often spread inside the bun or mixed with the lobster meat. The filling uses pieces of lobster from the knuckle, claw, and tail. It's usually seasoned very lightly, if at all. A common serving size is about four ounces of lobster meat.
Lobster Rolls in Canada
Lobster rolls are also a very popular seasonal meal in Canada's Maritime provinces, especially Nova Scotia. Many tourists enjoy them there.
In Canada, lobster rolls might be served on different kinds of bread. This includes hamburger buns, baguettes, or other bread rolls. Sometimes, they even come in pita pockets! The usual side dishes are potato chips and dill pickles.
Seasonal Treats at McDonald's
Did you know that even McDonald's sometimes sells lobster rolls? In Canadian provinces like Nova Scotia and Ontario, and in New England, McDonald's offers lobster rolls as a special item during the summer months.
See also
In Spanish: Lobster roll para niños
