Lobters in Rhode Island
Because Rhode Island has the perfect weather conditions and a lot of beaches, bays, and inlets, lobster fishing is one of the biggest industries in the state. In fact, it is estimated that lobster fishing brings in around $10 million per year. Of course, not everyone who fishes in the state does so for profit. Some people, especially tourists, enjoy going lobster fishing just as a novelty and a fun way to spend an afternoon in the great outdoors. Those who are not planning to make a profit from their fishing are allowed to try the activity for leisure without any kind of license or permit.
Most Rhode Island visitors who catch lobster do so with the intent of trying out one of Rhode Island's famous lobster recipes. One of the most famous recipes is the one for "Rhode Island Lobster Stew," which even appeared in the New York Times, back in 1995, cementing it as a staple Rhode Island food. This delicious recipe takes only forty-five minutes to prepare and all the chef needs is a fourth of a cup of olive oil, one hot green pepper, two trimmed and sliced medium leeks, two peeled and chopped red onions, one can of diced tomatoes not drained, three peeled and cubed medium sweet potatoes, three cups of white wine, and four lobsters. The preparer simply heats the oil in a large pot, adds the pepper and garlic, and then cooks for approximately three minutes. Then, the leeks, onions, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and most of the wine are added and cooked for seven minutes. Finally, the lobsters are added, the pot is covered, and the dishc ooks for five more minutes. The remaining wine is then added and cooked for another five minutes. Once the lobsters cool, they are cracked, the claws are broken off, the meat is removed, and the stew mixture is prepared. There are many other delicious lobster recipes from the state, because lobster is a real part of Rhode island culture and dining.