Classic comfort food that never goes out of style – that’s what you’ll find in this collection of 20 timeless recipes from New England. From hearty stews and soups to sweet treats and traditional holiday dishes, these Yankee favorites are sure to become new family traditions.
In this article, we’re revisiting the flavors and ingredients that define New England cuisine, with a focus on simplicity, quality, and tradition. Whether you’re a native Yankee or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s start exploring this culinary journey through the Northeast.
**Recipes:**
1. New England Clam Chowder
2. Maple- Glazed Roast Turkey
New England Clam Chowder
A classic and comforting recipe that warms hearts and bellies, this New England Clam Chowder is a staple of the region. With its creamy broth and tender clams, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups clam juice
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, milk, clam juice, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey
Add a touch of sweetness to your holiday turkey with this Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey recipe. The perfect blend of savory and sweet, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
4. Rub the glaze all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Boston Baked Beans
This traditional recipe yields tender, flavorful beans infused with the rich flavors of molasses and brown sugar. Perfect for accompanying your favorite BBQ dishes or as a comforting side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
4. Add the onions and garlic to the pot; cook until the onions are translucent.
5. Add the soaked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Cover the pot and bake for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Blueberry Buckle
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful blueberry buckle, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
These soft, fluffy whoopie pies are infused with the warm spices and sweetness of pumpkin, perfect for a cozy fall or winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree and butter until smooth. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly indented.
Yield: 8-10 whoopie pies
Apple Cider Donuts
Start your day with a sweet treat that captures the essence of autumn: Apple Cider Donuts! These fluffy, sugary donuts are infused with the warmth and comfort of apple cider, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
– Apple cider glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Add chopped apples to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
6. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop donuts into the hot oil, 2-3 at a time.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and let cool on paper towels.
9. Drizzle with Apple Cider Glaze (see below) before serving.
Apple Cider Glaze:
– Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider, and 1 tablespoon water in a bowl until smooth.
Lobster Roll
Lobster Roll Recipe
Discover the simplicity of creating a mouthwatering Lobster Roll at home! This classic New England treat requires just a few ingredients and some gentle handling to bring out the succulent flavor of fresh lobster.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat, chilled
– 4 soft, split-top buns (preferably brioche or egg)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with about an inch of water. Add the lobster meat and steam for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Split the buns in half lengthwise and toast lightly.
4. Spoon the steamed lobster onto the bun halves, leaving a slight border around the edges.
5. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Enjoy your perfectly crafted Lobster Roll!
Corn and Cod Chowder
Warm up with this comforting chowder, featuring tender cod, sweet corn, and a hint of smokiness from the paprika. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cod, corn, flour, fish broth, milk, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Rhode Island Johnnycakes
These classic Rhode Island treats have been a staple of the state’s cuisine since colonial times. Flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious, these johnnycakes are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
6. Roll out dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place johnnycakes on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cake.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vermont Cheddar Cheese Soup
Warm up with a rich and creamy Vermont Cheddar Cheese Soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Vermont Cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and smooth.
5. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer soup over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maine Blueberry Pie
Experience the sweetness of Maine’s iconic blueberries in this classic pie recipe. This beloved dessert is a staple of New England cuisine, perfect for warm weather gatherings and family traditions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen Maine blueberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine blueberries, sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the blueberry mixture and dot with butter pieces.
4. Roll out the remaining pie crust to cover the filling. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for ventilation.
5. Brush egg wash over the crust and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
New Hampshire Apple Crisp
Savor the flavors of the Granite State with this classic apple crisp recipe, featuring tender Granny Smith apples and a crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Mix until apples are evenly coated with the dry ingredients.
4. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
6. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Connecticut-Style Steamed Cheeseburgers
Connecticut-Style Steamed Cheeseburgers: A Unique Twist on a Classic Favorite
These tender, juicy burgers are steamed to perfection with melted cheese and a hint of sweetness from the onions. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to mix things up in the burger department.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
3. Place a patty in the center of each bun. Top with a slice of cheese, some chopped onion, and a pat of butter.
4. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the burgers are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yankee Pot Roast
Get cozy with this hearty, comforting pot roast that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. Tender beef, rich gravy, and aromatic spices come together to create a true American classic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cranberry Nut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of nuts, perfect for a snack or as a side dish for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Clam Cakes
A classic New England appetizer, Clam Cakes are crispy fried fritters filled with fresh clams and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound freshly shucked clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped clams, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the clam mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into hot oil (375°F) and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Clam Cakes!
Brown Bread in a Can
This classic recipe yields a deliciously moist brown bread with a sweet and nutty flavor, all in the comfort of your own home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh-baked goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup (10 oz)
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add in the milk and melted butter, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Indian Pudding
This traditional American dessert has a rich history dating back to colonial times, with its unique flavor profile and comforting texture making it a beloved treat for generations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of warm and cozy Indian pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and cornmeal to the mixture. Continue heating, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in raisins (if using).
4. Pour into individual serving dishes or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy!
Anadama Bread
Summary: This classic bread recipe from Native American traditions is a staple in many cultures, perfect for sandwiches or served with soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Flannel Hash
Start your day with a twist on traditional hash browns by adding the rich flavor of beets and the savory taste of corned beef. This Red Flannel Hash recipe is an easy and delicious way to kick off your morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red beets, peeled and grated
– 1 cup diced cooked corned beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated beets, corned beef, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a 9×13-inch baking dish over medium heat.
4. Add the beet mixture to the dish and press down gently with a spatula.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the beets are tender and the top is lightly browned.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of New England with these 20 classic recipes from Yankee Magazine. From seafood delights like Lobster Roll and Clam Cakes, to sweet treats like Blueberry Buckle and Apple Cider Donuts, these traditional dishes are sure to bring a taste of the Northeast to your table. Other highlights include Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey, Boston Baked Beans, and Vermont Cheddar Cheese Soup – perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.