Nestled in the heart of New England, Maine is known for its rugged coastline, picturesque lighthouses, and of course, its mouthwatering cuisine. The first thing everyone thinks of is lobster, but this northeastern state serves another icon on its tables: the Maine popover. These golden, airy pastries have become synonymous with the region, particularly in Acadia National Park, where they have achieved near-legendary status.
The History of the Popover
Before diving into the specifics of Maine popovers, let’s take a moment to understand the origins of this beloved pastry. Popovers evolved from Yorkshire pudding, a traditional English dish dating back to the 17th century. The simple side dish is a baked pudding made with eggs, flour, and milk or water. As settlers from England made their way to the New World, they brought with them recipes and culinary traditions, including the concept of batter puddings.
The term “popover” itself is distinctly American, first appearing in print in 1850. The name is derived from the way the batter “pops over” the sides of the muffin tin as it bakes, creating a distinctive shape with a crispy exterior and a hollow, custardy interior.
The Rise of Maine Popovers
While popovers gained popularity throughout the United States, they found a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Maine residents and visitors. The state’s cool climate provides the ideal conditions for perfecting and eating these egg-rich pastries.
No discussion of Maine popovers would be complete without mentioning Acadia National Park and its famous Jordan Pond House. The tradition of serving popovers at this iconic location dates back to the late 19th century when Nellie McIntire began offering afternoon tea and popovers to guests at her small tea house on the shores of Jordan Pond.
Jordan Pond popovers are served piping hot, straight from the oven. Their golden-brown exterior gives way to a light, airy interior that is perfect for catching a pat of butter or a dollop of jam. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but many have tried to recreate the magic of these Acadia National Park popovers at home.
Today, Acadia National Park popovers have become a must-try experience for visitors from around the world. In the summertime, visitors can enjoy popovers with tea on the lawn. The popovers are worth the wait, but if you want the shortest wait time, arrive before 11:30am or after 4:00pm. They are also available on the menu served with lemonade or prosecco. Want a truly decadent dessert? Try to popover sundae.
Top 5 FAQs About Maine Popovers
Curious about what makes Maine popovers so special? Here are the top five frequently asked questions about these delightful treats:
- What makes Maine popovers unique? Maine popovers, particularly those served at Jordan Pond House, are renowned for their exceptional quality. This is due to a combination of factors: the use of high-quality, fresh local ingredients (especially eggs and dairy), precise baking techniques, and the unique atmosphere in which they are often enjoyed. The cool, crisp Maine air and beautiful scenery seem to make these popovers taste even better!
- What’s the secret to making perfect popovers? Jordan Pond House will not share their secret recipe, but it is known that these factors come into play when making great popovers:
- Use room temperature ingredients.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Preheat the popover pan.
- Start with a high oven temperature and then reduce it.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking. Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to popovers!
- When is the best time to eat popovers? Popovers are best eaten immediately after they come out of the oven. They are at their puffiest and most impressive when fresh and hot. In many Maine households, they’re enjoyed as a special breakfast treat.
- What should I serve with popovers? Traditionally, popovers are served with butter and jam. However, they are versatile enough to be served with a variety of toppings or fillings. Some people enjoy them with clotted cream, honey, or even as a savory side with soups or roasted meats.
- Can I make Maine-style popovers at home? Absolutely! While they might not be exactly the same as those served at Jordan Pond House, you can certainly make delicious popovers at home. Many recipes are available online and include only five ingredients: eggs, whole milk, all-purpose flour, butter, and salt.
Beyond Acadia: Popovers in Maine
While Acadia National Park may be the most famous location for Maine popovers, there are other places in the state to enjoy popovers. Here are some of the best places to satisfy your popover cravings while vacationing in Maine:
- Central Provisions in Portland, Maine – Both the brunch and the lunch menus feature a popover option.
- Sur-Lie in Portland, Maine – The tapas style menu boasts an herbed popover with lobster.
- Boone’s Fish House and Oyster Room in Portland, Maine – Add a side of their popovers with honey whipped butter to any entree.
The Versatility of Popovers
While traditionally served as a breakfast or teatime treat, popovers have found their way into other meals and culinary applications. Some creative uses include:
- Breakfast popovers filled with scrambled eggs and cheese
- Savory popovers infused with herbs and served alongside roast meats
- Dessert popovers filled with fresh berries and whipped cream
- Miniature popovers served as appetizers with various dips
Conclusion
From their humble origins to their elevated status as a must-try Maine delicacy, popovers have carved out a special place in the state’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re enjoying them with a view of Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park or savoring a unique version in a local restaurant, Maine popovers offer a taste experience that is hard to forget.
So the next time you find yourself in the Pine Tree State, be sure to seek out these golden, puffy delights. Maine popovers are sure to leave you with lasting memories – and perhaps a newfound baking obsession. After all, once you have tasted the perfection of a Maine popover, you may find yourself wanting to recreate that magic in your own kitchen, no matter where you call home.
