Traditional American cuisine: 100+ classic American foods to try

To all foodies out there: Welcome to a yummy journey through the tantalizing variety of traditional American food and culinary culture! I just got back from the US, and I brought back some delicious insights for you.

Picture a land where flavors collide, where every bite tells a story of migration, innovation, and culinary genius. A land where cuisines are as diverse as its inhabitants and landscapes. Yes, we're diving fork-first into the melting pot of gastronomic delight known as the United States of America — by the way, don’t miss our article on American culture!

From the crazy streets of New Orleans to the bustling markets of Chinatown, from the spicy flavors of Tex-Mex to the freshness of coastal seafood, American cuisine is a kaleidoscope of taste sensations.

So, put on your Thanksgiving pants and join us on a lip-smacking adventure through the heart and soul of American food that will leave you saying yum num num num.

Table of Contents

• What is traditional American food?
• The roots of American cuisine
• European influence on American food culture
• African contributions to the American culture of food
• Latin American flavors
• American food with Asian Influence
• Fusion and innovation
• Regional specialties and modern adaptations
• Food as a cultural ambassador

What is traditional American food?

To many people around the world, American food equals burgers and fast food. Yet, as mentioned in our article on American culture, reducing American cuisine to burgers is like reducing French cuisine to French fries, — not even French, btw — Italian cuisine to pasta or Spanish cuisine to paella! You get the idea.

That leads us to the million-dollar question: what is traditional American food, exactly? Well, just like American culture, it would be more accurate to talk about American cuisines than cuisine.

The classics

But there are a few classics, though. We're talking about juicy burgers fresh off the grill, crispy fried chicken that practically sings with Southern charm, and the humble yet irresistible macaroni and cheese. These iconic dishes have roots that run deep, bringing together flavors and techniques from various corners of the globe to create something uniquely American.

We can’t forget about other staples like hot dogs— with mustard, onions cheese and sometimes even chili — BBQ brisket, Buffalo wings, cornbread, biscuits and gravy, meatloaf, cheesesteak, lobster rolls, deep-dish pizza, grits… the list goes on!

On the sweet tray, we have apple pie, pecan pie, pancakes, cheesecake, key lime pie, brownie, bread pudding, cookies, cobbler, Mississippi mud… and I won’t continue because my American peanut butter & chocolate snacks are calling in the kitchen.

Thanksgiving

And let's not overlook the king — or queen — of all meals: Thanksgiving, going all the way back to 1621. Pilgrims, who had arrived on the Mayflower the previous year, celebrated a successful harvest with a three-day feast. This event, attended by Pilgrims and members of the Wampanoag tribe, is often cited as the inspiration for the Thanksgiving we celebrate today.

This beloved holiday brings families together to feast on roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes casserole, green beans, stuffing, mac & cheese, cranberry sauce, and all the fixings. It's a time-honored tradition that celebrates abundance, gratitude, and the spirit of togetherness.

I live in Spain with my American husband, and we celebrate every year! Make sure to follow our blog, as we’ll publish an article dedicated to Thanksgiving.

One thing's for sure: traditional American food is as diverse, flavorful, and downright delicious as the country itself.

The roots of American cuisine

The culinary heritage of the US is deeply intertwined with the indigenous foods and cooking techniques of Native American tribes. Long before the arrival of European settlers, the First Nations cultivated a rich variety of crops and perfected cooking methods that continue to influence cuisine in America today.

Examples of Native American cuisine

Frybread

A staple in many Native American cultures, frybread is a simple yet versatile dish made from dough that is fried until golden and crispy. It can be enjoyed plain, drizzled with honey, or used as a base for other toppings like chili or beans.

Three Sisters stew

Named after the traditional First Nations planting technique of intercropping corn, squash, and beans, Three Sisters stew is a hearty and nutritious dish. It typically includes a combination of these three ingredients, along with other vegetables and sometimes meat or fish, simmered together to create a flavorful stew.

Pemmican

Pemmican is a traditional Native American food made from dried meat, usually bison or deer, which is pounded into a powder and mixed with rendered fat and dried berries. This high-energy food was an essential part of many tribes' diets and provided sustenance during long journeys or harsh winters.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a quintessential American dish with roots in Native American cuisine. Made from cornmeal, water or milk, and sometimes additional ingredients like eggs or sugar, cornbread can be baked or fried and is often served alongside savory dishes like chili or barbecue.

My favorite has a Tex-Mex twist: Jalapeños!

Wild rice

Native to North America, wild rice — which isn’t a true rice, but rather a cereal grass — has been a dietary staple for many Native American tribes for centuries. Harvested from lakes and rivers, wild rice is prized for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. It can be served as a side dish, added to soups and stews, or used in traditional dishes like wild rice pilaf.

Salmon

Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest have long relied on salmon as a vital food source. Salmon is often prepared using traditional methods such as smoking, curing, or grilling over an open flame. The rich, flavorful fish is enjoyed on its own or incorporated into dishes like salads, chowders, and wraps.

Acorn soup

In regions where oak trees grow abundantly, Native American tribes harvested and processed acorns to make a nutritious and hearty soup. The acorns were ground into flour, then mixed with water and other ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and meat to create a nourishing meal.

Fruit and nut pudding

First Nations across different regions crafted puddings using locally available fruits, nuts, and sweeteners. These puddings were often made by stewing fruits like berries, apples, or persimmons with nuts such as walnuts or pecans, then thickening the mixture with cornmeal or other grains.

Bison jerky

Before the arrival of Europeans, bison (buffalo) were a vital part of the Native American diet on the Great Plains. Bison meat was dried and cured to create jerky, a portable and protein-rich snack that provided sustenance during long journeys or times of scarcity.

If you’ve never tried a bison burger, I highly recommend it! Speaking of bison, did you know that Teddy Roosevelt helped to save them from extinction?

Maple-glazed sweet potatoes

First Nation tribes in the northeastern United States and Canada harvested maple syrup from maple trees and used it as a natural sweetener in various dishes. Maple-glazed sweet potatoes combine the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup, creating a delightful side dish often enjoyed during harvest festivals and celebrations.

Our sweet potato casserole with pecans is always the most popular dish at Thanksgiving!

These examples represent just a small sampling of the diverse and flavorful cuisine developed by Native American tribes over thousands of years. Their culinary legacy continues to shape the American culture of food, reminding us of the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous traditions.

European influence on American food culture

When European settlers arrived in the New World, they brought with them an amazing recipe book of culinary traditions that would profoundly shape American food culture.

Drawing upon the ingredients and techniques available in their new surroundings, these settlers adapted and innovated, creating a fusion of Old World flavors with New World ingredients that is absolutely unique to America.

For example, “Italian” or “Mediterranean” food in the US is very different from what a European would expect. Take it from a half French, half Italian person living in Spain!

Examples of traditional American food with European influences

Pot roast

Reflecting British culinary traditions, pot roast is a hearty and comforting dish that involves slow-cooking a tough cut of beef with vegetables and aromatic herbs and spices. This method of cooking was adapted by early American settlers, who utilized local ingredients such as root vegetables and wild herbs to create savory one-pot meals that would remind them of those enjoyed in the UK.

Apple pie

With its flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling, apple pie has become an iconic American dessert. Its roots can be traced back to Europe, particularly England and the Netherlands, where fruit pies were a common culinary tradition.

European settlers in America adapted these recipes using locally grown apples, establishing apple pie as a beloved symbol of American home cooking.

Shepherd's pie

Hailing from the British Isles, shepherd's pie is a classic comfort food that has found a place in American culinary culture. Traditionally made with minced lamb or mutton, vegetables, and topped with mashed potatoes, shepherd's pie was a way for British cooks to use up leftovers and create a hearty and economical meal.

In America, variations of this dish often include ground beef instead of lamb, but the comforting flavors remain the same.

Pizza

Italian immigrants brought their culinary heritage to America, introducing dishes like pizza to the masses. Initially confined to Italian enclaves in cities like New York and Chicago, pizza quickly gained popularity and became a staple of cuisine in America. Today, it's enjoyed in countless variations, from New York-style pizza to Chicago’s deep-dish pizza.

Now, as a French-Italian addicted to Neapolitan pizza, I need to intervene. As much as I love deep-dish pizza — it’s soooo good — I’d rather call it “pie” than “pizza”!

Pasta dishes

Italian influence on American food culture extends beyond pizza to include a wide variety of pasta dishes. From spaghetti and meatballs to fettuccine alfredo, pasta has become a ubiquitous presence on American dinner tables. Italian immigrants brought their pasta-making skills and recipes to America, adapting them with local ingredients and flavors to create comforting and satisfying dishes that have become beloved classics.

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved comfort food in the United States. This dish features breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, often served over a bed of pasta.

Italian immigrants introduced similar dishes to America, such as veal Parmesan, which were adapted over time to incorporate chicken and reflect American tastes.

It’s interesting to note that most of these dishes have never been heard of in Italy!

Hamburgers and hot dogs

German immigrants made significant contributions to American food culture, including the iconic hamburgers and hot dogs. While the origins of the hamburger are debated, it's widely believed to have German roots, with the Hamburg steak being a precursor.

German immigrants also brought frankfurters to America, which eventually evolved into the modern hot dog. These foods became popularized at fairs, carnivals, and diners across the country, reflecting the blending of German and American culinary traditions.

Shall we mention corn dogs?

French dip sandwich

Originating in Los Angeles in the early 20th century, the French Dip sandwich is a delicious marriage of French and American culinary influences.

Consisting of thinly sliced roast beef piled onto a French roll and served with a side of au jus (beef juice), this sandwich combines French bread with American-style roast beef and dipping sauce.

Quiche

Originating in France, quiche has become a popular dish in America, especially for brunch. This savory tart typically features a buttery crust — pâte brisée — filled with a custard mixture of eggs, cream and various ingredients such as cheese, bacon, spinach, mushrooms, or ham.

Quiche Lorraine is one of the most well-known variations enjoyed in both France and the US. Miam !

Swedish meatballs

Swedish immigrants also brought their culinary traditions to America, including the beloved dish of Swedish meatballs — kötbullar. These flavorful meatballs, typically made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, are seasoned with spices like nutmeg and allspice, then simmered in a creamy gravy and enjoyed with lingonberry sauce.

In America, Swedish meatballs are often served as an appetizer or as part of a hearty meal – for example, with spaghetti. Sweden, Italy and the US in the same plate!

African contributions to the American culture of food

The influence of African Americans on food traditions in the USA is profound and enduring. Through their knowledge of ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary traditions, African Americans played a significant role in shaping the flavors and dishes that are now synonymous with American culture of food.

Examples of dishes with an African background

Fried chicken

With its crispy golden crust and juicy interior, fried chicken is a quintessential soul food dish that owes its roots to African cooking techniques and is present on any celebration, for example Juneteenth.

Enslaved Africans brought with them the tradition of frying chicken, using a technique known as "seasoned frying" that involved marinating the chicken in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices before frying it. Try it with waffles!

Collard greens

Collard greens are a staple of Southern cuisine and a classic example of the African influence on food culture.

African Americans introduced the practice of cooking hearty greens, such as collards, turnip greens, and mustard greens, often simmered with smoked meat and seasonings for hours to develop rich flavor and tender texture.

Gumbo

My favorite American dish! I just got back from Louisiana and had it every single day!

Gumbo is a hearty and flavorful stew that reflects the multicultural influences of the region, including African, Native American, Acadian and European culinary traditions.

Enslaved Africans also brought the practice of using okra as a thickening agent, while the use of roux — a mixture of flour and fat — is derived from French cooking techniques. Gumbo can be made with seafood like shrimp and crawfish, or meat like chicken, wild duck and sausage. It’s enjoyed with rice, and often a side of potato salad.

Étouffée

Another one of my favorites, Étouffée is a classic Cajun and Creole dish that originated in Louisiana and reflects the cultural and culinary influences of African, French, and Native American traditions.

It typically consists of shellfish, such as crawfish, shrimp, or crab, cooked in a flavorful sauce made from a roux (butter and flour mixture), onions, celery, bell peppers, and spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and thyme.

The word "étouffée" comes from the French verb "étouffer," which means "to smother" or "to suffocate," referring to the cooking method of simmering the ingredients in a thick, rich sauce.

Jambalaya

Another beloved dish from Louisiana, jambalaya is a one-pot rice dish that combines elements of West African, Spanish, and French cuisine.

African Americans adapted traditional rice dishes from their homeland, incorporating local ingredients such as rice, tomatoes, peppers, sausage and/or seafood to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Grits

Grits are a classic Southern dish made from ground corn kernels, boiled into a thick porridge-like consistency. African Americans introduced the cultivation and preparation of corn, which became a staple ingredient in Southern cuisine.

Grits were originally consumed by Native American tribes and later adopted and adapted by African slaves and European settlers, becoming a beloved comfort food in the American South. I love them with shrimp and a spicy sauce!

Hoppin' John

Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoked pork, often served on New Year's Day for good luck. Enslaved Africans introduced black-eyed peas to the American South and developed techniques for cooking them into hearty and nutritious dishes like Hoppin' John.

My husband makes it every January 1st, along with cabbage for fortune.

Red beans and rice

This classic Creole dish from Louisiana is a flavorful and satisfying meal that owes its roots to African culinary traditions.

African Americans brought with them the practice of cooking beans and rice together, often flavored with spices, herbs, and leftover meat, to create a delicious and hearty dish.

Latin American flavors in America

Wherever you go in America, and especially in the States bordering Mexico, the influence of Mexican and other Latin American cuisines on American food is obvious. From the vibrant spices and bold flavors to the comforting staples and street food favorites, Latin American cuisine has left an indelible mark on food traditions.

US food with Latin flair

Tacos

Tacos have become a beloved staple of America, thanks to their delicious simplicity and endless versatility. Whether filled with seasoned ground beef, tender grilled chicken, crispy fish, or flavorful vegetables, tacos offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Topped with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and cabbage or lettuce, tacos are an irresistible embodiment of Mexican street food culture.

Burritos

Burritos are a hearty and satisfying meal that has become a staple of American fast-food chains and casual eateries.

A large flour tortilla is filled with a combination of rice, beans, meat (such as carne asada, chicken, or pork), cheese, and various toppings like salsa, sour cream, and lettuce.

Fajitas

Fajitas are typically made with marinated and grilled strips of meat, such as beef, chicken, or shrimp, along with sautéed onions and bell peppers. The meat and vegetables are seasoned with a blend of spices, including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika, giving them a bold and smoky flavor.

The sizzling hot mixture is traditionally served on a hot skillet or cast-iron pan, accompanied by warm flour tortillas, allowing diners to assemble their own fajitas with their choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful dish. Corn tortillas are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shredded chicken, cheese, beans, or vegetables, then rolled up and covered in a savory sauce, typically made from tomatoes, chilies, and spices.

Baked until bubbly and golden, enchiladas are often served with rice, beans, and a side of salsa or guacamole.

Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a simple yet delicious dish. Flour or corn tortillas are filled with cheese (and often other ingredients like chicken, beef, or vegetables) and cooked until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy.

Quesadillas are often served with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.

Ceviche

Ceviche is a refreshing and vibrant dish that originated in Latin America and has become increasingly popular in the United States. Fresh seafood, such as shrimp, fish, or scallops, is marinated in citrus juice (usually lime or lemon) along with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and peppers.

The acidic marinade "cooks" the seafood, resulting in a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for warm weather.

Chili con carne

Simply called “chili” by most Americans, this hearty and spicy stew has roots in Mexican cuisine but has been embraced and adapted in the United States, particularly in the American Southwest — don’t get me started on Cincinnati chili.

Chili con carne typically consists of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, chili peppers, and a variety of spices such as cumin, paprika, and oregano. It's often served with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions, and enjoyed year-round at cookouts, chili cook-offs, and sporting events.

Mole

Mole is a rich and complex sauce — with endless variations — that originated in Mexico and is made from a blend of chili peppers, spices, nuts, seeds, and chocolate.

In the United States, mole is often served over chicken, turkey, or pork as a flavorful and indulgent topping, especially in regions with large Mexican American communities.

Cuban sandwich

The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a satisfying sandwich that originated in Cuban immigrant communities in Florida.

It typically consists of sliced ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between slices of Cuban bread and grilled until crispy and golden.

American food with Asian Influence

The integration of Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and other Asian cuisines into America has been profound and far-reaching. From the bustling streets of San Francisco´s Chinatown to the hype sushi bars of Los Angeles, Asian flavors and techniques have become an integral part of the American culinary landscape.

Examples of Asian-American cuisine

Chop suey

Chop suey is a classic American-Chinese dish that originated in Chinese American communities in the late 19th century.

It typically consists of stir-fried vegetables such as cabbage, bean sprouts, and celery, along with meat (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp), tofu, or seafood, all cooked together in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and various seasonings.

Sushi rolls

Sushi rolls, also known as makizushi, have become a staple of American-Japanese cuisine, enjoyed by sushi enthusiasts across the country and beyong.

They typically consist of sushi rice and various ingredients such as fish (such as tuna, salmon, or crab), vegetables (such as cucumber, avocado, or carrot), and sometimes tempura shrimp or cream cheese, all wrapped in seaweed (nori) and sliced into bite-sized pieces.

Adobo

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish that has gained popularity in the United States, particularly among Filipino American communities. It typically consists of meat (such as chicken, pork, or beef) marinated and simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns until tender and flavorful.

Adobo is known for its rich and tangy sauce, which is often served over rice and accompanied by steamed vegetables or pickled papaya.

Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a beloved Thai noodle dish that has become a favorite in American Thai restaurants.

It typically consists of stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, or chicken, along with bean sprouts, green onions, and crushed peanuts, all tossed in a sweet and savory sauce made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has become increasingly popular in the United States. It typically consists of a crusty baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled or roasted meats (such as pork, chicken, or beef), pickled carrots and daikon radish, fresh cucumber slices, cilantro, and spicy chili sauce or mayonnaise.

Banh Mi is a perfect example of the fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary influences and has become a beloved street food favorite in cities across America.

Pho

Pho is a flavorful and aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup that has gained popularity in the United States, known for its rich broth and fresh ingredients. The soup typically features rice noodles, thinly sliced beef or chicken, and aromatic herbs and spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and ginger.

Pho is often served with a side of fresh bean sprouts, lime wedges, Thai basil, and jalapenos, allowing diners to customize their soup to their liking.

Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup that has become a trendy dish in the United States. The soup typically features a flavorful broth made from pork, chicken, or vegetables, along with toppings such as sliced pork belly, soft-boiled eggs, bamboo shoots, seaweed, and green onions.

Ramen shops have popped up across the country, offering a variety of regional styles and creative interpretations of this classic Japanese dish.

Chicken Tikka Masala

This flavorful and aromatic dish from India consists of grilled chunks of chicken (tikka) cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce (masala), seasoned with a blend of Indian spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.

Tikka Masala is often served with basmati rice or warm naan bread

Food fusion and innovation in America

The US is renowned for its ability to blend different culinary traditions from around the world, resulting in entirely new dishes that reflect the country's diverse cultural landscape.

This unique approach to cuisine has led to the creation of innovative and flavorful dishes that are beloved by people of all backgrounds. When I visit family and friends in South-East Texas, I get to enjoy a yummy blend of Tex-Mex, Southern, Cajun and Asian food!

Famous fusions from the USA

Tex-Mex cuisine

Tex-Mex cuisine is a prime example of fusion cuisine, blending elements of Mexican and American culinary traditions.

Popular Tex-Mex dishes include fajitas, nachos, enchiladas, and chili con carne. Tex-Mex cuisine often incorporates ingredients such as cheese, beef, and flour tortillas, which aren’t traditionally found in Mexican cuisine but have become integral components of Tex-Mex dishes.

California rolls

California rolls are a classic example of fusion sushi, combining traditional Japanese ingredients with American flavors and ingredients. Instead of raw fish, California rolls typically feature cooked crab meat, avocado, and cucumber, wrapped in sushi rice and seaweed (nori) and rolled in sesame seeds or tobiko (flying fish roe).

California rolls are often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Korean tacos

Korean tacos are a delicious fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors, featuring marinated and grilled meats (such as bulgogi or spicy pork) served in warm tortillas and topped with fresh vegetables, kimchi, and spicy sauces.

Korean tacos gained popularity in the early 2010s through food trucks and restaurants, offering a unique twist on traditional tacos.

Hawaiian pizza

Hawaiian pizza is a divisive yet iconic fusion dish that combines the flavors of Italian pizza with the tropical flavors of Hawaii. It typically features a traditional pizza crust topped with tomato sauce, cheese, ham or Canadian bacon, and pineapple chunks.

And here comes the debate: Pineapple or no pineapple on a pizza? I won’t go there…

Gyro

Though originating in Greece, the gyro has undergone a fusion transformation in the United States, reflecting the country's fusion of cultures.

In the US, the gyro has evolved to incorporate a variety of influences, including Greek, Middle Eastern, and American flavors. While traditionally served with lamb or beef, American versions of the gyro may also feature chicken or even vegetarian options like falafel. Additionally, gyro toppings and condiments may vary depending on regional preferences, with some variations including feta cheese, hot peppers, or different sauces.

Vietnamese coffee ice cream

Vietnamese coffee ice cream is a delicious fusion dessert that combines the flavors of Vietnamese coffee with creamy ice cream.

Vietnamese coffee is known for its strong and rich flavor, often brewed with sweetened condensed milk for added creaminess.

Sushi burrito

The sushi burrito — whaaaat? — is a creative fusion of Japanese sushi and Mexican burrito, offering a handheld and portable option for sushi lovers on the go. It typically consists of sushi rice, raw fish (such as tuna or salmon), vegetables, and other sushi fillings, all wrapped in a large sheet of seaweed (nori) — phewww, thought it was in a tortilla — and rolled into a burrito-like shape.

Sushi burritos often feature a variety of sauces and toppings, such as spicy mayo, avocado, and crunchy tempura flakes.

Regional specialties and modern adaptations of American food

Regional foods in the United States not only highlight local ingredients but also reflect the cultural histories and culinary traditions of their respective regions. From coast to coast and every state in between, each area boasts its own unique flavors and dishes that have become beloved cooking staples of America.

Examples of regional dishes around the US

New England clam chowder

New England clam chowder is a creamy and hearty soup that originated in the coastal regions of New England, particularly Massachusetts — that being said, I had the best clam chowder ever in Seattle!

It features tender clams, diced potatoes, onions, celery, and salt pork or bacon, all simmered together in a rich and creamy broth made from milk or cream, and often served with crackers, bread or even in the bread (used as a bowl).

Pacific Northwest salmon dishes

And speaking of Seattle, the Pacific Northwest is renowned for its abundant seafood, particularly salmon, which features prominently in many regional dishes. To me, Pacific Northwest wild-caught salmon, especially sockeye, is the best in the world.

Grilled or roasted salmon fillets served with a drizzle of lemon and herbs, cedar-planked salmon cooked over an open flame, Alaskan salmon bake or smoked salmon served on bagels with cream cheese and capers are just a few examples of dishes.

Southern barbecue

Southern barbecue is a culinary tradition that has deep roots in the Southern United States, particularly in states like Texas, North Carolina, and Tennessee. It encompasses a variety of smoked and slow-cooked meats, such as pork ribs, beef brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, often seasoned with dry rubs or marinades and cooked over wood-fired pits or smokers for hours.

Southern barbecue is known for its bold and smoky flavors, as well as its diverse regional styles of sauces and side dishes, including tangy vinegar-based sauces in North Carolina and sweet and spicy tomato-based sauces in Texas.

Midwestern Hot dish

Hot dish is a classic comfort food of the American Midwest, consisting of a casserole-style dish made with a combination of ingredients such as ground beef or turkey, canned vegetables (such as green beans or corn), and starches like pasta, rice, or tater tots, all baked together in a single dish. Wow.

Variations of hot dish abound, with popular versions including Tater Tot Hot Dish, Minnesota Wild Rice Hot Dish, and Beef and Noodle Hot Dish.

Tex-Mex breakfast tacos

Originating from the Tex-Mex culinary tradition, breakfast tacos are a popular morning staple in Texas and beyond.

They typically consist of soft flour tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, potatoes, cheese, and salsa or hot sauce.

Low Country Boil

Low Country Boil, also known as Frogmore Stew, is a beloved Southern dish that originated in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina.

It typically consists of a hearty medley of shellfish such as shrimp, crab, or crawfish, along with smoked sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all boiled together in a flavorful broth seasoned with Old Bay seasoning or other spices. My favorite is crawfish boil!

Wisconsin cheese curds

Wisconsin cheese curds are a popular snack and regional specialty in the dairy-rich state of Wisconsin. These bite-sized nuggets of cheese are made from fresh curds of Cheddar cheese, which are mild in flavor with a slightly squeaky texture.

Wisconsin cheese curds can be enjoyed plain or breaded and deep-fried for a crispy exterior and gooey interior.

Maine lobster roll

The Maine lobster roll is a quintessential summer dish that highlights the fresh and sweet flavor of Maine lobster. It typically consists of chunks of chilled lobster meat tossed with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings, then served on a buttered and toasted split-top hot dog bun.

Trust me, when you’ve tried Maine lobster, you can’t have lobster from anywhere else ever again!

Food as a cultural ambassador

As mentioned in our article on American culture, food is a core element of the US identity. To grasp the significance of food in America, simply inquire about tourist hotspots from any local. More often than not, their foremost recommendation, perhaps the sole one, will revolve around the vibrant restaurant scene!

Understanding diversity through food

American food acts as a window into the nation's diverse cultural landscape, offering insight into the myriad backgrounds that shape the country's culinary identity.

Celebrating diversity at food festivals

Food festivals bring communities together to showcase their unique cuisines, traditions, and culinary innovations, fostering appreciation for cultural diversity. There’s literally a festival for any kind of food you can imagine!

Exploring authenticity at ethnic restaurants

Ethnic restaurants provide authentic dining experiences, offering diners the opportunity to taste traditional dishes and engage with different cultures. And the awesome thing is, in America, you can find them virtually anywhere, not just in big cities!

Connecting through culinary tourism

Culinary tourism offers immersive experiences that allow travelers to explore the world through its food, fostering cross-cultural connections and understanding. I’ve just followed the Boudin Trail in Cajun Country, Louisiana!

Embracing food as a unifying force

By embracing American food as a cultural ambassador, people can celebrate diversity, forge connections, and build understanding across cultural boundaries. And this is something Americans are really proud of!

As we wrap up — pun intended — our culinary journey, we strongly encourage you to experience the American culture of food if you have the opportunity to travel to the US.

From the Southern barbecue pits to the comforting smell of New England clam chowder, each dish whispers tales of heritage, resilience, and innovation.

American food traditions are a beacon of hope, a reminder that amidst our differences, there is unity to be found around the table — a delicious illustration of the country’s melting pot… literally!

Keep learning about all things language and culture on our fun and free Berlitz blog.