The state of Maryland has so much to offer: history, culture, outdoor activities, shopping, and lots of food. Locals and tourists alike know this state for its treasured seafood from the Chesapeake Bay – a vast abundance of crab and oysters are on just about every menu and prepared in many different ways. Seafood isn’t the only foodie delight Maryland has to offer, but it’s the front runner. Here are some specialties that shouldn’t be missed.

Steamed Blue Crabs

Ask any Marylander and they’ll tell you the signature food of Maryland is the blue crab fresh from the Chesapeake Bay. Instead of boiling them, the traditional way to prepare them is to smother them in Old Bay seasoning and steam them. Old Bay seasoning is a secret concoction of spices that tastes amazing on just about anything, but especially on seafood. Delicious and simple, steamed blue crabs are definitely one of Maryland’s signature dishes.

Crab Cakes

With such an abundance of sweet blue crab, Marylanders tend to add a bit to every recipe as well. The crab cake, however, is a staple on many menus in the area. Each chef prepares them a little differently but the key ingredients are a must: blue crab, Old Bay seasoning, egg and breadcrumbs. While the crab cake highlights the crab, the side sauces are an important factor as well. Whether it be an appetizer of crab cakes or a crab cake sandwich, you won’t be disappointed.

Utz Crab Chips

Two of our favorite things are combined into one with Utz Crab Chips. While there isn’t any actual crab in these potato chips, the flavor is apparent due to the Chesapeake Bay crab seasoning, sort of a distant cousin to Old Bay seasoning. It’s the perfect snack to satisfy your crab or potato chip craving.

Pit Beef

Not in the mood for seafood? Be sure to try the Pit Beef sandwich, originally conceived in Baltimore. Many states pride themselves in their BBQ and Maryland is no different. The Pit Beef sandwich is a roast beef sandwich that’s quite tender with a charcoal and smoky flavor. The roast beef is seasoned with salt and grilled until it’s crispy on the outside and rare on the inside and is then served on an onion roll with some horseradish and cheese. You can’t go wrong with that concoction.

Thrashers French Fries

French fries are the perfect side to any dish, and if you’re able to go to Ocean City, you must try the iconic Thrashers French Fries, possibly the best fries in the state. Originating in 1929, Thrashers have had plenty of time to perfect the fried potato. Order them with salt if you want to try them traditional, or try them with some apple cider vinegar if you’re feeling adventurous.

Smith Island Cake

If you’re looking for dessert, make sure to have a slice of Smith Island Cake, Maryland’s official state dessert. Dating back to the 1800’s, this multi-layer cake was originally made for the watermen to take with them on their Autumn oyster harvest. The cake is typically made with ten layers of yellow cake and rich chocolate fudge frosting. The original recipe, as well as some new and creative versions, are available at restaurants all over Maryland. So, if you see it on the menu, order yourself a piece.

Natty Boh

After all of the foodie treats you’ve experienced, you may need something to wash it down.  National Bohemian Beer, more commonly known as Natty Boh, is the official beer of Baltimore and is well loved by Marylanders. This treasured pilsner was first brewed in Baltimore in 1885 and hasn’t stopped, except for Prohibition, since. Enjoy a few cold ones if you get the chance.

 

 

Take part in all that Maryland has to offer, including all of their culinary specialties. What’s your favorite Maryland creation?