Famous Food from New Hampshire

The famous food from New Hampshire could really be claimed by the entire area of New England. That's because New Hampshire was one of the first 13 original colonies, and the culture and history of these colonies are very intertwined.

But there are still many things that make New Hampshire unique! It is the 5th smallest state in the United States, yet New Hampshire boasts a wide variety of landscapes! Across its 9,350 square miles, you will find mountains, lakes, and beaches, as well as quaint small towns, and large stretches of wilderness.

Scattered all throughout the state are charming orchards that are perfect to visit for family outings. You can pick your own apples, pears, plums, and even cherries!

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History of Apple Cider Donuts
History of New England Boiled Dinner
Famous Food From New Hampshire Dinner Menu
New Hampshire State Facts
Reviews

History of Apple Cider Donuts

It is because of those special apple picking trips that apple cider donuts became so popular in New Hampshire!

In the crisp fall weather, there is nothing more delightful than enjoying a freshly made apple cider donut purchased from the donut stand at the orchard.

Though the orchard stands are what build memories of these donuts today, the history of the apple cider donut is believed to date all the way back to the colonial days. In those days it was important that nothing went to waste, so they would use leftover animal fat to fry dough for a treat. During the fall, they would add apples from the harvest, for an extra special delight!

In the 1950s the Donut Corporation of America launched a campaign to grow their fall donut sales. They decided that the best way to celebrate fall was with apple cider donuts, so these donuts became a part of their annual campaign, and love for these donuts spread even beyond the northeast!

Two rows of apple cider donuts, with a bowl of apples, cinnamon sticks, and cider.

History of New England Boiled Dinner

Many think that corned beef and cabbage originated in Ireland. However, beef was not commonly found on the Irish family table because it was very expensive. Instead, pork was the more popular choice. The pork was cured so that it would last longer! And because the cut was lean it needed to be boiled for hours to tenderize.

There was a surge of Irish immigration to America in the early 1800s. Upon arriving, they found that beef was the most economical meat in their new country. That meant that their traditional dinner needed a switch-up, and the New England Boiled Dinner with corned beef was born.

It was common in those days to add to the pot whatever vegetables you had on hand. This led to a wide variety of meals, that almost always included a root vegetable of some sort.