Maine’s Most Iconic Food Tops the Rest of New England

The United States of America is one unique place. It's a land of 50 individual regions. This structure has allowed each state to build its own identity over the last 240+ years. And a major part of every state's identity is the food scene.

It's often debated what region has the best food, and locals certainly will defend their delicacies. However, at the end of the day, they all truly deserve mention, because it's a part of our very fabric as Americans.

That's why when I saw a list recently published from the Food Network, I just had to write about it.

The Food Network decided to put together a list of the most iconic food items from every state. Many of these were predictable (I'm sure you have a pretty good idea of what Maine's is). However, others were rather mind-blowing.

I thought it would be fun to take a closer look at New England's most iconic food items, and perhaps even rank them. SO, that's exactly what I did.

Below is the very scientific (lol) ranking of the iconic foods from each New England state (again, according to Food Network).

1. Maine - Lobster Roll

It's difficult to compete with this monster. It's a bunch of lobster meat, coated in butter or mayonnaise, and thrown into a perfectly-toasted bun. Simple, but effective. An easy number one for the region.

2. New Hampshire - Poutine

This was stolen from the French Canadians, but who cares? Poutine is a killer meal and only continues to grow in popularity. Name a better combo than fries, gravy, and cheese curds.

3. Massachusetts - Clam Chowder

Probably the second most popular seafood item to get in New England. This bowl of chowder is always in demand, and much better than that creepy one that's red. Manhattan doesn't know chowder.

4. Rhode Island - Coffee Milk 

I had no idea this was such a big thing in Rhode Island. Apparently, it's been the official state drink since the early 1990s. I absolutely love the stuff. It's practically the only way you're going to get me to drink milk.

5. Connecticut - White Clam Pizza

I'm sure other people would have this ranked higher, but it doesn't do it for me. I understand the appeal, though. Plus, New Haven-style pizza is some of the best you will find in the entire country.

6. Vermont - Apple Pie With Cheddar Cheese

This is just an abomination. Don't get me wrong, I love apple pie and cheddar. However, the thought of eating those two together makes me want to vomit. To each his own, I guess.

Overall, I think Food Network's list is extremely accurate. All six of the items represent their respective states well. Although, perhaps Ben and Jerry's ice cream would have been a better selection for Vermont.

I wonder if other parts of the country will have the same reaction to what is perceived as their state's most iconic food.

Interested to see the rest of the country's most iconic meals? Click here.