Only in USA …
Do you love trying new foods? Are you looking for something totally unique to add to your cooking repertoire? Then this blog post is for you! Here, we’ll explore some of the most delicious and unique foods that can only be found in the USA. From regional specialties to secret recipes, get ready for a tasty adventure!
1. Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is one of the United States’ most iconic dishes and a staple of American barbecue. It’s made by slow-cooking a pork shoulder, usually 4 to 5-lb. Boston butt pork roast, until the meat is so tender it can be pulled apart with two forks. Originally, pork butt was the cut used for pulled pork, but because the U.S. pork industry was working to sell more tenderloin, pulled pork has become a popular dish in its own right. Pulled pork is versatile and can be served in many different ways, including on a toasted bun with coleslaw, fries and some dill pickles on the side. But remember that a bone-in pork shoulder will only yield around 60% meat per person, so make sure you plan accordingly if you’re cooking for a crowd. And while it may not be as iconic as shrimp and grits or key lime pie, pulled pork has certainly earned its place among America’s favorite dishes.
2. Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and Grits is the Lowcountry cousin of Pulled Pork, and just as iconic in its own right. It’s a classic Southern dish, with creamy sauce, seafood goodness, and the perfect Creole seasoning – perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to give even the most discerning Key Lime Pie connoisseur something to smile about. The generous amount of cheese in this recipe gives it extra creaminess, making it a favorite for those who love a good dose of comfort food. And after you’ve filled your belly with this delicious dish, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with some S’mores or Twinkies – or if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a Lobster Roll? But no matter what treat you choose, you can always top it off with a classic American favorite: Hamburgers, Steak or a Gas Station Beef Jerky!
3. Key Lime Pie
The iconic Key Lime Pie is a must-have when visiting the Florida Keys. Made with the juice of Key Limes, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, this dessert is a delicious way to finish off a day of sightseeing and adventure. For the best Key Lime Pie experience, make sure to stop by Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe on Elizabeth Street for an authentic slice of heaven. And don’t worry about not having enough limes – unless you’re from the Florida Keys, it’s almost impossible to find them! So grab yourself a slice of Key Lime Pie and have a taste of Florida – it’ll be sure to leave you wanting a second helping.
4. Lobster Rolls
One of the most iconic foods in the United States is the lobster roll. This decadent sandwich consists of succulent lobster meat piled onto a buttery bun, and is a true delicacy all over the country. From Maine, where it originated, to Dallas and beyond, you can find this delicious sandwich everywhere. The traditional Maine style consists of lightly dressed lobster meat on a grilled hot dog-style bun with a hint of mayo and lemon. But if that’s not your style, you can find variations like Connecticut-style with just lobster meat, bun, butter and lemon, or even 20 Feet’s with six different kinds of lobster rolls. No matter what kind of lobster roll you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it in the United States. So don’t let anyone tell you that all we eat in the US is hamburgers and steak – there’s also some delicious seafood to be found!
5. S’mores
S’mores are the quintessential American food that have been around since the time of grandma’s grandmother. Whether you’re huddling around a campfire or snacking on the classic combination of marshmallow, chocolate, and graham crackers at home, s’mores are an iconic treat that no other country can lay claim to! The West Virginians are so proud of their official state treat that they’ve even gone as far as to create a Chilidog version of the beloved snack. No matter how you like to eat your s’mores – with Malt-O-Meal cereal, straight from the bag of marshmallows, or banana boat-style – you can rest assured that you’re indulging in a uniquely American delicacy.
6. Twinkies
The Twinkie is one of America’s most iconic snacks, and it’s no surprise that it has become a symbol of food nostalgia for many millennials. It’s a golden sponge cake with creamy filling that has been around since 1930 and has even been dropped from a six-story building! Not to mention, Twinkies have also made their way to Mexican stores as “Submarinos” and “Tuinky”, made by Marinela and Wonder respectively. And if you’re looking for something a bit more extravagant, there are even restaurants that offer gussied up Twinkies! So if you’re looking for the classic American snack, the Twinkie is definitely the way to go.
7. Hamburgers
The hamburger is a classic American food, and it’s no surprise that it has made its way onto the list of the United States’ most popular foods. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or something more substantial, burgers are the perfect choice. Whether you prefer a juicy beef patty topped with cheese, bacon, and all of your favorite condiments, or you just want some plain grilled goodness, hamburgers are sure to hit the spot! And if you’re looking for something even more indulgent, why not try a Spaghetti Burger – a burger basted in spaghetti sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese? It might sound strange, but it’s one of the most delicious things you’ll ever eat!
8. Fortune Cookies
When you think of American cuisine, the first thought that comes to mind probably isn’t fortune cookies. But believe it or not, these tasty treats are actually an American invention. Although they were inspired by a Japanese confectionery store in San Francisco, fortune cookies have become a staple in many Chinese restaurants across the United States. With mass production and distribution, these vanilla-flavored cookies have become a must-have at the end of a meal. Nowadays, around 3 billion fortune cookies are made each year, and while they may not be as traditional as pulled pork, shrimp and grits, or even hamburgers, they are just as quintessentially American. So the next time you’re in search of a sweet treat, don’t forget to crack open your fortune cookie – who knows, you might find the secret to unlocking your inner Key Lime Pie!
9. Steak
Steak is a classic American dish and one of the most popular foods in the US. From the comfort food of Chicken Fried Steak to the luxury of Kobe beef, steak is a staple of American cuisine. While it’s possible to find these amazing cuts across the country, the only place you can find true Kobe beef is at 43 restaurants in the US. And if you don’t manage to win the steak challenge at The Big Texan Gift Shop in Amarillo, Texas, you’re welcome to take home their leftovers. Prime One Twelve in Miami serves up a tasty Kobe Ribeye that’s sure to satisfy any steak lover’s cravings. So get ready to dig into some steak and experience some of America’s tastiest treats!
10. Gas Station Beef Jerky
When it comes to American snacks, there’s no denying that beef jerky stands out. With a reputation as a gas station snack beloved by truckers, beef jerky has enjoyed a certain rugged, masculine, blue-collar image. But here’s the thing – you don’t have to be a trucker to enjoy beef jerky. Nowadays, you can buy jerky just about anywhere from gas stations, supermarkets and even gourmet shops. Does Buc-ee’s really have Bohemian Garlic beef jerky? They do. And it’s guaranteed to be the best “gas station food” you’ve ever had. It’s a snack that you can get at any gas station or grocery store in America, and it arrives in a plethora of flavors, shapes and sizes. Top chefs are even incorporating the meat in dishes from cocktails to desserts. Who would have thought that this lowbrow product relegated to the local gas station could become so sophisticated?