New England, known for its rich history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture, has a treasure trove of delicious culinary traditions. From the sea to the table, the region’s unique flavor profile is shaped by its maritime heritage, colonial roots, and rural charm. When it comes to cooking, New Englanders take pride in their hearty dishes that warm the soul. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 classic recipes that showcase the region’s signature flavors, from creamy chowders to sweet baked goods.
Stay tuned for our countdown of must-try recipes, including iconic dishes like New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Roll with Butter Toasted Bun, as well as beloved treats like Parker House Rolls and Maple-Glazed Roasted Turkey. Whether you’re a native Yankee or just visiting the Northeast, these classic recipes are sure to bring a taste of New England to your table.
New England Clam Chowder
A classic and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or as an accompaniment to your favorite seafood dishes, this New England Clam Chowder is a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, and flour; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If using potatoes, add them to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Roll with Butter Toasted Bun
Lobster Roll with Butter Toasted Bun Recipe
Summary: A decadent and indulgent lobster roll recipe featuring succulent lobster meat served on a toasted bun slathered with rich butter, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the inside of each bun by spreading a thin layer of softened butter evenly.
3. Place the buns on the preheated grill and toast for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, place the lobster meat in a bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the rolls by placing a generous amount of lobster meat onto each toasted bun.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Boston Baked Beans with Molasses
This traditional recipe yields a rich, sweet, and tangy bean dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite meats or as a side dish. The molasses adds depth of flavor to the classic combination of navy beans, tomato sauce, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine soaked and drained beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the water to the mixture and stir well.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
New England Boiled Dinner
This classic New England dish is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender meats, root vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s no wonder this boiled dinner has been a staple in many New England households for generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef brisket, smoked sausage, carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and cabbage.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the brown sugar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the meats are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Parker House Rolls
Classic Parker House rolls are a staple of New England cuisine, with their flaky, buttery crust and soft interior. This recipe yields tender, golden-brown rolls perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into squares or use a biscuit cutter to create desired shape.
6. Fold each piece in half, then press edges together to seal.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Donuts
Get cozy with these sweet treats infused with the flavors of fall – warm apple cider and crispy donut goodness!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, milk, apple cider, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and mix until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Fry donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including rising time)
Maple-Glazed Roasted Turkey
This sweet and savory recipe elevates the classic roasted turkey to new heights with a rich maple glaze. Perfect for special occasions or holidays, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, 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 30 minutes.
7. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Blueberry Buckle with Streusel Topping
This classic dessert combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with a crumbly streusel topping, creating a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the batter.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This simple recipe brings together the tender flavors of corned beef, crunchy cabbage, and tangy spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket
– 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
– 1 teaspoon pickling spice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water, then place it in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add enough water to cover the meat, along with the brown sugar, mustard (if using), and pickling spice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cabbage wedges to the pot. Simmer until the cabbage is slightly tender and caramelized.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Boston Cream Pie
This classic dessert consists of layers of sponge cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate glaze, making it a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup melted semisweet chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Add milk and softened butter to the eggs; whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
6. Pour batter into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
9. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
10. Pour melted chocolate over cooled cake; spread evenly.
11. Top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake) + 5-7 minutes (whipped cream)
New England Fish and Chips
Savor the classic combination of crispy batter-coated fish and golden fries, a staple of New England cuisine. This recipe yields a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch fries
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, and melted butter.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip fish pieces into buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
6. Meanwhile, fry potatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, draining and seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Whoopie Pies with Marshmallow Filling
These classic American treats are a delight to make and devour. Soft, fluffy cakes sandwiched with a marshmallow filling will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Marshmallow creme (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow the cakes to cool completely before filling with marshmallow creme.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Rhode Island Johnnycakes
These traditional Rhode Island Johnnycakes are a staple of the Ocean State’s cuisine, with their sweet and savory flavor profile. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside treats will transport you to the Narragansett Bay.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup scalded milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, molasses, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add scalded milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (circles or squares work well).
5. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Littleneck Clams with Garlic Butter
Savor the simplicity of this classic seafood dish, where fresh clams are elevated by a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as an appetizer for a larger gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and remove any broken or open shells.
2. In a large pot, combine the clams and enough cold water to cover them. Steam over high heat until the clams start to open, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and add the garlic butter mixture. Stir gently to combine with the clam juices.
5. Serve the steamed clams with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Anadama Bread with Molasses and Cornmeal
This traditional American bread recipe combines the warmth of molasses with the earthiness of cornmeal, resulting in a sweet and savory loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons molasses
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by stirring it into the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the molasses to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
New England Pot Roast with Root Vegetables
Classic comfort food at its finest! This hearty pot roast recipe combines tender beef with a medley of root vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef chuck roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip to the pot. Cook until vegetables are slightly tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Return the roast to the pot.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Cranberry Nut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a sweet treat. Dried cranberries and chopped nuts add natural sweetness and texture to this easy-to-make loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add cranberries and nuts to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Vermont Cheddar Cheese Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy Vermont Cheddar Cheese Soup, perfect for a cozy night in or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Vermont cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of New England with these classic recipes! From hearty stews and chowders to sweet treats and comfort foods, this list has something for everyone. Try making a creamy bowl of New England Clam Chowder or indulging in a lobster roll served on butter-toasted bun. Don’t miss out on Boston Baked Beans with Molasses, Parker House Rolls, or Maple-Glazed Roasted Turkey. And save room for sweet treats like Apple Cider Donuts and Blueberry Buckle with Streusel Topping. These recipes are sure to transport you to the Northeast!