10 Best Foods To Try In New Hampshire | Famous Foods Of New Hampshire

New Hampshire, known as the “Granite State,” is a beautiful destination known for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, and small-town charm. However, New Hampshire is also home to a vibrant food scene, with a variety of local specialties that are unique to the state.

From fresh seafood to maple syrup, New Hampshire has a lot to offer foodies and travelers alike.

In this article, we will explore what New Hampshire is known for food, what the state is famous for food, and the best local food that you must try when visiting the state. Whether you are a food lover or simply looking for some delicious meals to enjoy during your trip to New Hampshire, this guide will help you discover the best food the state has to offer.

What is New Hampshire known for food | What to eat in New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a rich culinary tradition, influenced by its location in New England and its history as a farming and fishing state. Here are 10 famous New Hampshire local foods and cuisines:

1.Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is an important agricultural product in New Hampshire, which is known for its abundance of maple trees. New Hampshire is one of the top maple syrup producers in the United States, along with Vermont and Maine.

The state’s ideal climate and soil conditions, along with the abundance of sugar maples, make it an ideal location for maple syrup production.

In New Hampshire, the maple sugaring season typically runs from late February to early April, depending on weather conditions. During this time, maple producers tap the trees and collect the sap, which is then boiled down to make maple syrup. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of maple syrup.

The New Hampshire Maple Producers Association is a great resource for those interested in learning more about maple syrup production in the state. They offer information on sugarhouses and maple producers throughout the state, as well as events and festivals celebrating maple syrup, such as the annual New Hampshire Maple Weekend in March.

Overall, maple syrup is a significant part of New Hampshire’s agricultural industry and cultural heritage, and it is valued both locally and internationally for its unique flavor and versatility in cooking and baking.

2.Lobster

New Hampshire’s coastal waters are known for their delicious lobster, which is often served steamed or in lobster rolls.

Lobster is a beloved seafood in New Hampshire and is a staple in the state’s cuisine. New Hampshire’s coast offers an abundance of fresh, locally caught lobsters, which are considered a delicacy and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Lobster is typically served in a variety of dishes, such as lobster rolls, lobster bisque, lobster mac and cheese, and boiled or steamed lobster with drawn butter. Many restaurants and seafood shacks along the coast offer lobster dishes, often with a New England twist.

One popular spot for lobster in New Hampshire is the town of Portsmouth, which has a bustling restaurant scene and is known for its fresh seafood. Other coastal towns, such as Hampton, Rye, and New Castle, also offer plenty of options for lobster lovers.

In addition to dining out, visitors can also purchase fresh lobsters from local seafood markets and cook them at home. Some markets even offer the option to have the lobsters steamed for you, so you can enjoy them right away.

Overall, lobster is a delicious and important part of New Hampshire’s culinary scene, and it’s a must-try for anyone visiting the state’s coastal region.

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3.Apple Cider Donuts

These sweet treats are a fall favorite in New Hampshire, made with fresh apple cider and dusted with cinnamon sugar.

Apple cider donuts are a beloved fall treat in New Hampshire, and they are a staple at many local farms and orchards throughout the state. Made with fresh apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these donuts have a unique flavor and a moist, cake-like texture.

Many orchards and farms in New Hampshire offer apple cider donuts as a seasonal treat, often freshly made on-site. Visitors can enjoy them with a cup of hot cider or coffee while taking in the beautiful fall foliage.

Some popular spots for apple cider donuts in New Hampshire include Carter Hill Orchard in Concord, Apple Hill Farm in Concord, and Sunnycrest Farm in Londonderry. These locations offer a variety of other fall activities, such as apple picking, hayrides, and pumpkin patches, making them a great destination for a day trip or weekend outing.

In addition to enjoying apple cider donuts at local farms and orchards, many bakeries and cafes throughout the state also offer them as a seasonal treat. Some locations even offer them year-round, so you can enjoy this delicious treat any time of the year.

Overall, apple cider donuts are a quintessential fall treat in New Hampshire, and they are a must-try for anyone visiting the state during the autumn season.

4.Clam Chowder

Clam chowder is a classic New England dish, and it is particularly popular in coastal New Hampshire, where fresh clams are abundant. There are two main types of clam chowder: New England clam chowder, which is a creamy, milk-based chowder, and Manhattan clam chowder, which is tomato-based.

In New Hampshire, New England clam chowder is more commonly found on menus, and it is often made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and cream. The chowder is typically served hot and is a comforting and filling dish, especially on a chilly day.

Many restaurants along the coast of New Hampshire offer clam chowder on their menus, and some, like The Old Salt Restaurant in Hampton, are particularly known for their chowder. In addition, some seafood shacks and food trucks specialize in clam chowder and offer it as a to-go option for those on the go.

Visitors to New Hampshire can also purchase fresh clams from local seafood markets and cook their own clam chowder at home. Some markets even offer pre-made chowder that can be heated up and enjoyed at home.

Overall, clam chowder is a classic and beloved dish in New Hampshire, and it’s a must-try for anyone visiting the state’s coastal region.

5.Fried Clams

Fried clams are a popular seafood dish in New Hampshire, particularly along the state’s coast. The dish is made with fresh clams, which are breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown, and typically served with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce.

Many seafood shacks and restaurants along the coast of New Hampshire offer fried clams on their menus, and some are particularly known for their version of the dish. For example, Petey’s Summertime Seafood in Rye Beach has been serving up fried clams for over 60 years and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

In addition to dining out, visitors can also purchase fresh clams from local seafood markets and fry them up at home. Some markets even offer pre-breaded clams that can be fried up quickly and easily.

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6.Blueberries

Blueberries are a popular fruit in New Hampshire, and the state is known for its delicious and plentiful blueberry crops. The blueberry season in New Hampshire typically runs from mid-July through mid-August, with peak harvest time in early August.

Many farms throughout the state offer pick-your-own blueberry options, allowing visitors to experience the joy of picking their own fresh blueberries straight from the bush. Some popular farms for blueberry picking in New Hampshire include Berrybogg Farm in Strafford, Blueberry Bay Farm in Stratham, and Apple Hill Farm in Concord.

In addition to pick-your-own options, visitors can also find fresh blueberries at local farmers’ markets and grocery stores throughout the state. Many local bakeries, cafes, and restaurants also feature blueberries in their menu items, such as blueberry pancakes, muffins, and pies.

Blueberries are also a key ingredient in New Hampshire’s famous blueberry jam, which is made with fresh blueberries, sugar, and pectin. Many local producers offer blueberry jam for sale, and it’s a delicious and popular souvenir for visitors to take home.

7.Boiled Dinner

Boiled dinner is a traditional New England dish, and it is particularly popular in New Hampshire. The dish consists of boiled meat, typically corned beef or ham, and a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes.

Boiled dinner is often served on special occasions, such as St. Patrick’s Day or as a comforting, hearty meal during the colder months. It is a one-pot meal that is easy to prepare and can feed a crowd.

Many restaurants throughout New Hampshire offer boiled dinner on their menus, particularly those that specialize in traditional New England cuisine. Some popular spots for boiled dinner include The Old Salt Restaurant in Hampton and Hart’s Turkey Farm in Meredith.

In addition to dining out, visitors can also prepare boiled dinner at home. Recipes vary, but the general process involves boiling the meat and vegetables together in a large pot until they are tender and flavorful.

8.Indian Pudding

Indian pudding is a traditional New England dessert, and it is particularly popular in New Hampshire. The dish is a type of custard made with cornmeal, molasses, milk, and spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Indian pudding is typically served warm and often topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Many restaurants throughout New Hampshire offer Indian pudding on their dessert menus, particularly those that specialize in traditional New England cuisine. Some popular spots for Indian pudding include The Old Salt Restaurant in Hampton and The Red Arrow Diner in Manchester.

In addition to dining out, visitors can also prepare Indian pudding at home. Recipes vary, but the general process involves combining the ingredients and baking the pudding in the oven until it is set and has a pudding-like consistency.

Indian pudding is a beloved dessert in New Hampshire and throughout New England, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional New England cuisine.

9.Apple Pie

Apple pie is a beloved dessert in New Hampshire, particularly during the fall when apples are in season. The state is known for its delicious apple pies, which are often made with locally grown apples and other fresh ingredients.

Many bakeries and cafes throughout New Hampshire offer apple pie on their menus, and some are particularly known for their version of the dish. For example, The Apple Barn and Country Bake Shop in Concord is a popular spot for apple pie and other baked goods, and Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill is famous for its homemade apple pies served with warm maple syrup.

In addition to dining out, visitors can also purchase fresh apples and make their own apple pies at home. Many farms throughout the state offer pick-your-own apple options, allowing visitors to select the perfect apples for their pies. Local farmers’ markets and grocery stores also offer a variety of fresh apples, including heirloom varieties.

10.Poutine

Poutine is a Canadian dish that has gained popularity in recent years throughout the United States, including in New Hampshire. Poutine typically consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, and sometimes additional toppings such as bacon, pulled pork, or vegetables.

Many restaurants in New Hampshire offer poutine on their menus, often with their own unique twist. For example, the Tuckaway Tavern and Butchery in Raymond offers a variety of poutine options, including traditional poutine, lobster poutine, and even Thanksgiving poutine with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

Poutine is also a popular late-night food in New Hampshire, with some restaurants and food trucks specializing in poutine as a late-night snack. The El Rodeo Go food truck in Manchester, for example, serves a Mexican-inspired poutine with carne asada, cheese sauce, and jalapenos.

Overall, while poutine is not a traditional New Hampshire dish, it has become a popular and beloved item on many restaurant menus throughout the state, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience the fusion of Canadian and American cuisine.

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FAQs:

Q: What is the typical cuisine in New Hampshire?

A: The typical cuisine in New Hampshire is influenced by its coastal location, with seafood dishes being a popular choice. Additionally, New Hampshire is known for its hearty comfort food, such as mac and cheese, meat pies, and maple syrup-based dishes.

Q: What is New Hampshire famous for food-wise?

A: New Hampshire is famous for its maple syrup, which is used in a variety of dishes and desserts. The state is also known for its seafood, particularly lobster, and its chowder.

Q: What are some popular restaurants in New Hampshire?

A: New Hampshire is home to many popular restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eateries. Some popular options include The Black Birch in Kittery, which serves farm-to-table cuisine, and The Common Man in Concord, which is known for its comfort food.

Q: Is there any vegetarian or vegan food in New Hampshire?

A: Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan options available in New Hampshire, particularly in larger cities such as Manchester and Nashua. Some popular options include The Juicery in Portsmouth, which serves fresh juices and smoothies, and The Farm Concessions in Durham, which offers vegetarian and vegan sandwiches and salads.

Q: Are there any famous food festivals or events in New Hampshire?

A: Yes, there are several famous food festivals and events in New Hampshire, including the New Hampshire Maple Weekend, which celebrates the state’s maple syrup industry, and the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, which features a variety of seafood dishes from local restaurants. Additionally, the state hosts several craft beer festivals and wine events throughout the year.