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Let's Enjoy These 10 American Dishes Everyone Should Try
The United States of America is known for its freedom, diversity, and, of course, its delicious food . Today, we're touring the nation to taste some emblematic dishes that have become icons of American culture!
While hamburgers, hot dogs, and the comforting Mac and Cheese are undeniable parts of our identity, it's time to highlight other delicious dishes equally significant in American gastronomy . Join us to review the origins and recipes of these 10 iconic American specialties . We'd love to know which one is your favorite!
1
Cornbread
Image: Rafael Cisneros Méndez
With its roots planted in Native American cuisine, cornbread has become a unique staple, especially in the South of our country.
Easy to make and irresistibly tasty , this quick bread stands out for its versatility , making it a great companion to meals of many Americans at different times of the day .
And the best part? You only need cornmeal, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and a couple of eggs to make it! What time of the day do you prefer to enjoy this recipe?
2
Apple Pie
Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦
Did you know that apple pie was one of the favorite desserts of our first president, George Washington ? While it originated in England, the apple pie was brought to America by European settlers and stayed here to evolve into the special dessert we know today. It is now so linked with American culture that we have the saying, "As American as apple pie," to prove it!
Often enjoyed during Thanksgiving and other holidays as a tasty autumn dessert , this is a slightly more elaborate recipe, but definitely worth a try.
And if you're looking for a special occasion to bake one, May 13th is the perfect date, since it's National Apple Pie Day in the United States!
3
Pecan Pie
Image: Leila Issa
Pecans are a delightful treat, right? And you know what? They are native to North America , especially the South , which is why the wonderful Pecan Pie is associated with this region of the country.
The formula for this tasty dessert is said to have emerged in the late 19th century , with one of its earliest recipes appearing in an 1886 recipe book!
And, while it's a classic during holidays like Thanksgiving , you can actually enjoy it anytime, all year round. In fact, this recipe is so popular that the state of Texas has declared it their official state pie !
4
Philly Cheesesteak
Image: Ir Like
Enough sweet for now. Now, let's talk about a savory delight, the Philly Cheesesteak .
As its name suggests, this classic was born in the city of Philadelphia , Pennsylvania, and is believed to be the creation of a hot dog vendor in the 1930s .
Who can resist the combination of a crispy hoagie roll, thinly sliced pieces of steak, onion, bell pepper, and melted cheese? We can't!
Of course, people in Philadelphia have a special day to celebrate this dish: March 24. Have you ever joined the celebration? If not, consider this as a sign to do it next year!
5
Thanksgiving Turkey
Image: Megan Watson
As you probably already know, it is believed that in Plymouth, Massachusetts , a special meeting took place in 1621 . According to myth, English settlers there shared a feast with Native Americans that included primarily turkey , among other foods. This gathering is often considered the very first Thanksgiving , forever linking turkey to this day of gratitude.
For this delicious recipe, you won't need many ingredients; just butter, fresh herbs, an onion, a lemon, some garlic, and salt and pepper to taste, along with your turkey , of course! In addition, you can stuff it with the option of your choice.
And while all this may sound familiar, here's a surprising fact: According to the National Turkey Federation, approximately 46 million turkeys are eaten each year at Thanksgiving!
6
Biscuits and Gravy
Image: Stephen McFadden
Originally from the South of the United States , the Biscuits and Gravy recipe is today a classic comfort food that has also spread to other parts of the country.
Mainly consumed as breakfast but also having special appearances as brunch or dinner, this dish is characterized by its flavor and simplicity.
Depending on the area where it is prepared, the type of gravy may vary, and sometimes, you can find combinations with some extra ingredients, like bacon or eggs . Are you one of the fans of this dish?
7
Po' Boy Sandwich
Image: Anastasia gezalova
While its origin is still debated, there is a story about the birth of the Po' Boy Sandwich that has been accepted by most New Orleanians.
The year was 1929 when a strike of streetcar conductors broke out. In the city of New Orleans , Benny and Clovis Martin decided to support the striking workers. As restaurant owners, they began handing out free special sandwiches to the conductors, affectionately known as "Poor Boys." This name later became associated with the sandwich and, over time, "Poor Boy" evolved into the "Po' boy" we know today, a staple of Louisiana cuisine .
The classic recipe contains the delicious combination of fried shrimp or roast beef, lettuce , tomato , pickles , mayonnaise , and a sauce of choice, all on a good loaf of French bread . Irresistible!
8
Reuben Sandwich
Image: Asnim Ansari
If you love grilled sandwiches, then the Reuben Sandwich is the choice for you.
Its origin is still debated, with two competing stories: one from the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1920 , and the other from Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City in 1914. Whether it comes from New York or Omaha, the Reuben is undeniably an American classic .
Making this dish is quite simple. You'll need rye bread , thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, a good Swiss cheese , and dressing (Russian or Thousand Island dressing). And don't forget to butter the bread before grilling !
With a combination of Jewish deli meats, German sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, this sandwich is a representation of the diverse cultures and cuisines that enrich our nation.
9
Buffalo wings
Image: Clark Douglas
If you offer this dish to a foreigner, you might confuse them a bit. After all, buffaloes don't have wings! The thing is that this delicacy is named after the city where it originated.
The story goes that Buffalo wings were invented in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York , where co-owner of the bar Teressa Bellissimo created the dish in search of a quick snack. That's when she deep-fried some chicken wings and tossed them in a sauce made from butter and seasonings . She then served them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, just as they are served today.
If you're not among the millions who prepare this dish for the Super Bowl , don't worry. You can enjoy it at the National Buffalo Wing Festival , held every Labor Day weekend; you probably guessed where: in Buffalo, New York.
10
Clam chowder
Image: Kevin Lanceplaine
Representing New England cuisine , Clam Chowder has become one of America's staples, and its origin and ingredients can prove it.
It is said that when the European settlers arrived on the Atlantic coast , they wanted to recreate their traditional seafood stews. However, inspired by the local ingredients , something entirely new was born. It was a creamy soup with clams and other coastal treats. The first known written recipe for this dish appeared in 1832 in "The New England Farmer" magazine.
And as if all that was not enough, this recipe definitively sealed its status as a classic when it was included in Herman Melville's unforgettable novel, "Moby-Dick" !
