America may be a melting pot of different cultures but its food also varies by region. Each part of the US has its claim to fame when it comes to comfort foods and local flavours. So get ready to indulge in some of the best dishes from every corner of the United States. Lets Taste the USA
East Coast Dishes:
- The Classic Breakfast: A bagel with cream cheese is a must when travelling anywhere in the Northeast. Add some smoked salmon if you’re feeling adventurous. Wash it down with a hot coffee and you’ve got yourself a New York-style breakfast.
- Clam Chowder Time: One of the most popular and beloved seafood dishes in New England is the creamy and thick clam chowder; filled with clams, potatoes, and veggies in a rich broth. A creamy New England-style chowder or even a Manhattan clam chowder (which is tomato-based and full of flavour) are both great choices if you’re looking to sample the Atlantic coast.
- Pizza: New York City in itself has its style of pizza which is distinct from the rest of the country. New York pizza is known for its thin crust, large slice, and foldable style which is great for eating on the run. But don’t forget to try the regional pizzas around New York City – Chicago has its famous deep-dish style which is known for its thick and buttery crust. New Haven, Connecticut offers a white pizza which leans more on the thin crust side and is topped with clams, mozzarella, and garlic. These are just a few of the famous styles so be on the lookout for the variety of pizza pockets, rolls, and flatbreads found around each corner in the Midwest and East Coast.
Southern Comfort Food:
- Fried Chicken Fit For A King: Crispy, juicy and oh, so flavorful, Southern fried chicken is the epitome of comfort food. It’s all in the batter, usually seasoned with herbs and spices, and the fry – achieving a golden-brown crust while keeping the meat unbelievably moist.
- Barbecue Delight: Barbecue is king (or queen) in the South, and differences in regions provide a range of smoky, tangy or sweet tastes. Try the slow-cooked pulled pork of North Carolina, steamed in a vinegar-based sauce. Chomp on the ribs of Texas, famous for dry rubs and smoky taste. Or sample the mustard-based barbecue sauces of South Carolina or the tangy tomato-based sauces found in Georgia.
- Grits for Breakfast (and beyond): The creamy cornmeal porridge is a Southern breakfast staple, but why stop before sundown? Stone-ground or steamed fresh grits can be topped with butter, cheese or shrimp for a filling savoury meal.
West Coast Wonders:
- California Dreamin’ with Fresh Seafood: Dungeness crab is a West Coast favourite. This hard-shell crab’s meat is sweet and tender. Enjoy it steamed with melted butter, or get creative and try the other numerous recipes (it’s even popular in Chinese crab restaurants). Cioppino is a West Coast seafood stew, loaded with shellfish, tomatoes, herbs and spices.
- Tri-Tip Time: This California favourite is a marinated and grilled tri-tip roast. It’s often served with a chimichurri sauce, a pesto-like condiment made with parsley, olive oil, garlic and vinegar. Yum!
- Pacific Coast Pastries: You can’t leave San Francisco without the flaky sourdough bread. This San Francisco speciality uses a sourdough starter culture to create this tangy bread that is perfect for making sourdough bread bowls or for toast.
American Icons:
- All-American Burger: Nothing says “America” like a juicy burger topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and all the trimmings. Cheeseburgers come in all shapes and sizes, including regional twists like the patty melt (caramelized onions and Swiss cheese on rye).
- Hot Dog Heaven: Chicago-style dogs topped with everything including sport peppers, relish, celery salt, and a dill pickle spear on top. Or Texas-style with chilli and cheese, or New England’s lobster rolls served in hot dog buns. Hot dogs are a tasty and cheap street food.
- Apple Pie à la Mode: No American food tour is complete without trying a warm slice of apple pie accompanied by a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream. This iconic American dessert consists of tender, spiced apples wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. A perfectly sweet and tart combination. But don’t stop there! Other regional desserts include pecan pie, a sweet and rich Southern treat, or key lime pie, a cool and citrusy dessert originating in Florida.
Of course, this is only a snippet of all the amazing food you can find to eat in the USA. With regional and international flavours there is always something new and delicious to try when travelling through the States. So get your fork ready and happy eating!
