Maryland’s food scene is a delicious tapestry woven with the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay, Mid-Atlantic tradition, and modern innovation. Nestled between the Atlantic coast and the rolling hills of Appalachia, Maryland benefits from a unique geography that has profoundly shaped its culinary identity. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, provides an abundance of seafood, while its position in the Mid-Atlantic region blends Northern and Southern culinary influences. From the iconic blue crab to the sweet Smith Island Cake, Maryland offers a culinary journey that is both familiar and uniquely its own. Maryland is known for its delicious and iconic food scene, and this article will explore the most famous foods that embody the state’s culinary heritage and are a must try for both visitors and locals. Come along as we dive into the most delectable dishes and treats that define the Old Line State.
The Indisputable Maryland Crab Cakes
No culinary exploration of Maryland is complete without experiencing the state’s most iconic dish: Maryland crab cakes. Often considered the gold standard of crab cakes, these delicacies are prized for their simplicity and the unparalleled flavor of the Chesapeake Bay’s blue crab. A true Maryland crab cake is more than just a patty of seafood; it’s a testament to the quality of the crab itself.
The key to a perfect Maryland crab cake lies in the quality of the ingredients. Lump crab meat, known for its large, succulent chunks, is the star of the show. Minimal filler, such as breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and a touch of mustard, is used to bind the crab meat together, ensuring that the crab flavor remains the focal point. Some variations incorporate a hint of Old Bay seasoning, the state’s beloved spice blend, while others maintain a purist approach, relying solely on the natural sweetness of the crab.
Maryland crab cakes are typically prepared in one of two ways: broiled or fried. Broiled crab cakes offer a healthier option, allowing the crab meat to cook gently and retain its moisture. Frying, on the other hand, imparts a crispy, golden-brown exterior, adding a satisfying textural contrast to the tender crab meat within. Both preparations, when done right, result in a mouthwatering experience.
To truly experience the best Maryland crab cakes, venture to some of the state’s renowned seafood establishments. Faidley Seafood, located in Baltimore’s Lexington Market, is a legendary institution known for its colossal crab cakes, packed with jumbo lump crab meat. Costas Inn, another Baltimore favorite, serves up generous portions of crab cakes in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond these well-known spots, countless local crab houses throughout Maryland offer their own unique takes on this classic dish, each reflecting the chef’s personal touch and the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay. If you are looking for the best Maryland crab cakes, be sure to visit these local spots.
Steamed Crabs: A Maryland Tradition
Beyond the refined elegance of crab cakes, lies another essential Maryland experience: steamed crabs. This communal feast is a cornerstone of Maryland’s food culture, bringing people together to crack, pick, and savor the state’s prized blue crabs. Steamed crabs are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of the Chesapeake Bay and a time-honored tradition.
Maryland blue crabs, scientifically known as Callinectes sapidus (meaning “beautiful swimmer”), are the stars of this culinary spectacle. These crustaceans are renowned for their sweet, delicate flavor and their distinctive blue claws. Blue Crabs are harvested from the Chesapeake Bay, and their seasonal availability influences the culinary calendar of Maryland. The best time to enjoy steamed crabs is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the crabs are at their plumpest and most flavorful.
The steaming process is crucial to achieving the perfect steamed crab. The crabs are typically layered in a large pot, sprinkled generously with Old Bay seasoning (more on that later!), and then steamed until they turn a vibrant orange color. The Old Bay infuses the crabs with a savory, spicy kick that complements their natural sweetness.
Eating steamed crabs is an art form in itself. Armed with wooden mallets, paper-covered tables, and a healthy dose of patience, diners gather to crack open the crabs, picking out the succulent meat from the claws, body, and legs. It’s a messy, hands-on experience that’s as much about the camaraderie as it is about the food. Be sure to learn the proper way to crack open a crab for the best experience.
Maryland’s crab houses and waterside restaurants offer the quintessential steamed crab experience. These establishments often feature outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the beautiful Chesapeake Bay views while indulging in their crab feast. From casual crab shacks to upscale seafood restaurants, there’s a steamed crab experience to suit every taste and budget. Enjoy the beautiful Chesapeake Bay while cracking open some steamed crabs!
Old Bay Seasoning: Maryland’s Flavor
No discussion of Maryland food is complete without acknowledging the influence of Old Bay seasoning. This iconic spice blend is a ubiquitous presence in Maryland kitchens and restaurants, adding its distinctive flavor to everything from crabs and shrimp to fries and popcorn. Old Bay is more than just a seasoning; it’s a symbol of Maryland’s culinary identity.
Old Bay is a blend of eighteen spices, including celery salt, red pepper, and paprika. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but its signature flavor is instantly recognizable. Created in Baltimore in 1939 by Gustav Brunn, a German immigrant, Old Bay was originally intended for seasoning crabs. However, its popularity quickly spread, and it soon became a staple ingredient in Maryland cuisine.
While Old Bay is best known for its use on steamed crabs, its versatility extends far beyond seafood. It’s a popular seasoning for french fries, chicken wings, and even Bloody Marys. Many Marylanders swear by Old Bay as a general-purpose seasoning, adding it to soups, stews, and vegetable dishes.
To truly experience the flavor of Old Bay, simply order a side of Old Bay fries at any Maryland restaurant. The crispy, salty fries, seasoned with the iconic spice blend, are a perfect complement to any meal. Alternatively, try steamed shrimp seasoned with Old Bay, or even sprinkle it on your popcorn for a unique and flavorful snack. Any dish using Old Bay seasoning will do.
Smith Island Cake: A Sweet Slice of Maryland History
For a sweet ending to your Maryland culinary adventure, look no further than Smith Island Cake. This multi-layered cake, the official state dessert of Maryland, is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the island’s residents. Smith Island Cake is a unique and delicious treat that represents the spirit of Maryland.
A Smith Island Cake consists of numerous thin layers of cake, typically six to ten, separated by generous layers of frosting. The cake layers are traditionally made with a simple vanilla or chocolate batter, while the frosting is often a fudgy chocolate or a creamy vanilla buttercream. The key to a good Smith Island Cake is the thinness of the cake layers and the ratio of cake to frosting.
The cake’s origins can be traced back to Smith Island, a remote island in the Chesapeake Bay. It is thought that island women created the cake to send with their husbands, who worked as watermen, because it could stay fresh without refrigeration. The thin layers of cake and the generous frosting helped to prevent the cake from drying out during long periods at sea.
While traditional Smith Island Cakes are typically chocolate or vanilla, modern variations include a wide range of flavors, such as coconut, strawberry, and lemon. No matter the flavor, a Smith Island Cake is always a celebration of Maryland’s culinary heritage.
Today, Smith Island Cakes can be found in bakeries throughout Maryland, although the best place to sample one is, of course, on Smith Island itself. Several bakeries on the island specialize in making Smith Island Cakes, using traditional recipes passed down through generations. Be sure to try this cake when visiting the bakeries throughout Maryland.
Natty Boh: Baltimore’s Beloved Brew
No culinary exploration of Maryland, particularly Baltimore, is complete without mentioning National Bohemian Beer, affectionately known as “Natty Boh.” This light lager is more than just a beer; it’s a symbol of Baltimore’s working-class roots and a beloved icon of the city’s culture.
National Bohemian was first brewed in Baltimore in 1885. It quickly became a popular choice among the city’s blue-collar workers, who appreciated its affordability and refreshing taste. Over the years, Natty Boh has become synonymous with Baltimore, its iconic “Mr. Boh” mascot, a one-eyed man with a handlebar mustache, adorning everything from beer cans to t-shirts.
Natty Boh is a light-bodied lager with a crisp, clean flavor. It’s a refreshing and easy-drinking beer that pairs well with a variety of Maryland foods, from steamed crabs to pit beef. While it may not be the most complex or sophisticated beer, Natty Boh is a classic choice that embodies the spirit of Baltimore.
Natty Boh is widely available in Maryland bars and restaurants. Whether you’re enjoying a crab feast at a waterfront restaurant or catching a baseball game at Camden Yards, Natty Boh is the perfect beverage to complete the Maryland experience. It embodies the spirit of Baltimore and is a must try when in town.
Pit Beef: A Baltimore Barbecue
Another regional specialty that’s worth seeking out is pit beef, a barbecue tradition particularly associated with Baltimore. Pit beef is simple yet satisfying: thinly sliced beef, cooked over charcoal, and served on a roll. The beauty lies in the quality of the beef and the skill of the pitmaster.
The beef is typically a top round or sirloin roast, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic. It’s cooked over an open charcoal pit until it’s charred on the outside and still rare in the center. The beef is then sliced thinly and piled high on a kaiser roll.
Typical toppings for pit beef include tiger sauce (a horseradish-based mayonnaise) and raw onion. The tiger sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick that complements the smoky flavor of the beef.
Pit beef can be found at roadside stands and restaurants around Baltimore. These establishments often feature open-air pits, allowing customers to watch the pitmasters at work. It’s a casual and unpretentious dining experience that’s quintessentially Baltimore.
Other Tasty Maryland Treats
While the foods above are some of the most famous, other dishes contribute to Maryland’s diverse culinary landscape. Chesapeake Bay oysters, with their briny flavor, are a delicacy enjoyed raw, steamed, or fried. Rockfish (striped bass), another Chesapeake Bay favorite, is often grilled or pan-seared. And for those with a sweet tooth, Berger Cookies, fudge covered shortbread cookies from Baltimore, are a must-try.
A Culinary Journey Through Maryland
Maryland’s diverse and flavorful cuisine offers a true taste of the Mid-Atlantic, inviting you to savor the best of the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. From the iconic crab cakes to the simple pleasure of pit beef, Maryland’s food scene is a reflection of its rich history, its unique geography, and its vibrant culture. So, embark on a culinary journey through the Old Line State and discover the delicious treasures that await.
