This Iconic Dish Is Maine’s Favorite ‘Comfort Food’

Our Pine Tree State is known for its food, and we’re famous for several dishes that could be considered 'comfort food.' But what’s our favorite?

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But first, what exactly is comfort food? Comfort food is the type of meal that evokes warm memories of home, family, or childhood. It’s often simple or traditional, reminding you of familiar flavors and happy times. Whether it’s a dish your parents made or something you’ve shared with friends, comfort food brings a sense of nostalgia. It’s like a cozy hug in the form of a meal, making you feel good inside.

Who decides what should be—and apparently is—considered Maine’s favorite comfort food?

Mashed's report on ‘The Favorite Comfort Food From Each State’ explores the diverse culinary traditions across the U.S. The team examined regional favorites and unique recipes specific to each state, celebrating the variety that comes from different cultural backgrounds and local influences. They aimed to highlight foods that might be well-known in one area but unfamiliar elsewhere. By sharing these beloved comfort foods, the report encourages people to appreciate and try the specialties from other regions.

So, with that in mind, what iconic dish is considered Maine’s go-to comfort food?

According to Mashed, in their report ‘The Favorite Comfort Food From Each State,’ Maine’s favorite comfort food is, of course, the lobster roll. Mashed had this to say about their pick:

Prior to the 1800s, lobster was considered a poor man's food and in such low demand that farmers used these so-called cockroaches of the sea to fertilize their fields. But oh how things have changed. Today, lobster is a high-end entrée, and something nobody loves more than the folks living in Maine. As the largest lobster-producing state in the nation, Maine-iacs know a thing or two about preparing in-demand seafood, and they can't get enough of the lobster roll — chunks of fresh lobster mixed with mayo and served atop a buttery, toasted bun. It's a comfort food classic!

What are your thoughts on the lobster roll being named Maine’s favorite comfort food? Should lobster and lobster rolls even be considered comfort food? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.