The delights of Maine cuisine are characterized by the extensive use of seafood and dairy products, which result from its historical reliance on its seaports, fishing industry and extensive dairy farming in inland regions.

In England during this period, carrying weapons (especially guns) was forbidden to any but the upper classes. Upon reaching the New World, these Englishmen found themselves in a land where they could feast on venison from the white tailed deer and the Eastern moose and shoot pigeons for their meat — these were likely featured at the first Thanksgiving feast in 1621.

Many of New England’s earliest Puritan settlers were from eastern England and who brought with them traditions of dairy products, baked pies and beans, apple pies, turkey, peas porridge and steamed puddings. These became common Yankee dishes, some are now included nationally during thanksgiving dinners. They would have prized other foods such a roast duck and goose, lamb and hams and all these were brought to the New World as soon as the colonies began to prosper as farmyard stock.

Many herbs were uncommon and not hardy and as a result, most savory New England dishes do not have strong seasoning aside from salt, ground black pepper, sage and parsley. Other dishes, meant as desserts, often contained ingredients like nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and ground ginger which are a legacy of trade with the Caribbean. That began in the 17th Century and lasted well into the 19th when molasses and honey were staple sweeteners for all but the upper classes. Prior to Prohibition, some of the finest rum distilleries were located in New England.

Maine is known for its lobster and particularly popular is the lobster roll. Lobster meat is mixed with mayo. and other secret ingredients and served in a grilled hot dog roll. Many eateries vie for the reputation of making the best! Red Snappers — natural casing frankfurters colored bright red, are considered the most popular type of hot dog in Maine. New England hot dog rolls are split on top instead of on the side The Italian sandwich is southern Maine’s most popular. Portland restaurant Amato’s claims to have invented this – specifically a submarine sandwich made with ham, cheese, tomato, raw peppers and pickles served with or without oil, salt and pepper — in 1902. Maine is the largest grower of blueberries in the country so, of course, there are many dishes including the official state dessert: the wild Maine blueberry pie. The Whoopie Pie is the official state treat. Be sure to enjoy!