Uncover the rich tapestry of cultural influences and culinary traditions that have shaped each region’s unique cuisine. From savory classics to mouthwatering desserts, this cookbook collection will inspire you to expand your culinary horizons.
From 25 choices of cream cheese in a New York deli to blueberry pancakes in Oregon, discover a host of new interesting dishes throughout your journey across the United States.
East Coast
From bustling New York City to charming coastal towns, the East Coast is a culinary treasure. The diverse cuisine reflects the region’s rich cultural tapestry, from street meals and seafood to comfort foods and fine dining.
A visit to the historic town of Annapolis, Maryland, will satisfy any appetite. The seaside destination is famous for its sailing, and after working up a thirst you can indulge in a crab feast that highlights the local delicacy. Alternatively, head to Tavern on the Hill in Winthrop, where the menu showcases a harmonious blend of flavors that caters to all cravings. From succulent ribs and seafood to classic pub starters, this eatery has something for every palate.
Another historic East Coast gem is Charleston, South Carolina. The oldest of the American colonies, this city is steeped in a history that includes pirate hangouts and witch cities. During your stay, take a tour of the city and discover how its many cultures have influenced the culinary scene. The city’s pockets of ethnicity, such as Little Haiti and Little Havana, are bursting with vibrant flavors and exotic ingredients that reflect the country’s history and heritage.
The East Coast’s culinary landscape is further enriched by coastal and farm-fresh ingredients that give each bite a flavorful taste of home. Indulge in steamed blue crabs and buttery shrimp or a hearty bowl of shrimp and grits. You can also enjoy the smoky goodness of barbecue or a crispy Calabash style dish that is sure to delight your senses.
North Carolina’s culinary scene is a delightful tapestry of Southern traditions, coastal flavors and warm hospitality. Its pristine beaches and lush forests inspire its cuisine. The state’s seafood and fresh produce is celebrated with dishes such as grilled oysters and hearty shrimp and grits. You can even try a Calabash-style dish, a regional specialty made with lightly breaded and fried seafood.
In contrast, Miami boasts a distinct Latin culture with flavors that range from Caribbean to African to European. Indulge in a taste of these influences in the city’s numerous Latin-influenced restaurants or browse the large open markets. This East Coast city also offers a glimpse into America’s multicultural past, as it is the only major U.S. city that was founded by a woman.
Midwest
The Midwest of the United States is the home to a regional cuisine that draws from Central and Northern Europe, as well as Native North America. Often called the breadbasket of the nation, grains are a staple in many Midwestern dishes. Wheat, corn and soybeans are commonly grown in the region, which also serves as a hub for dairy production, and is dotted with lakes, rivers and streams that are ideal for fishing.
Because the Midwest was a destination for many immigrant groups, ethnic foods have been a part of the local culinary scene since the 19th century. For example, immigrants from Eastern Europe brought dishes like varenyky, krakowski, poppy seed roll and kolaches. They also introduced polka dances and church potlucks, with dishes such as kluski, vatrushka, kolobta, schnitzel, stuffed cabbage rolls and kohlrabi to the region. In addition to the European influences, the Midwest is also known for its casserole dishes, such as tuna chowder and sloppy joes. The area is a hotbed of culinary innovation, with many acclaimed chefs working in Chicago and other large cities.
It is not easy to define the exact boundaries of the Midwest. Some state lines are clearly defined, but others are not. Some people say that only the eastern half of the state of South Dakota counts as part of the Midwest, while others insist that a geographic definition should include all states west of Iowa and Nebraska. A dialect map could help settle the debate, as could a list of the most common Midwest accents.
Food in the Midwest is often influenced by the region’s long stretches of grassland, and it has been described as comforting and satisfying. The cuisine is rooted in a culture of subsistence and a waste-not, want-not mentality.
People in the Midwest also take a lot of pride in their communities and traditions, and these are reflected in the meals they eat. Many people from the Midwest have a deep love of family and celebrate holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. During these events, people will typically gather with their families to share a meal and exchange gifts. Roasted ham and turkey are popular choices for these meals, as are baked beans, potatoes, corn and carrots.
Other classics are fried fish, chili and pizza. Many people from the Midwest are also fans of gooey butter cake, stollen cake, fruit pies and doughnuts. In fact, the St. Louis area is credited with inventing both the soft-centered coffee cake and frozen custard. In addition, the city is renowned for its street-corner pretzels and iced tea.
South
Discover the soulful tastes of Southern barbecue and gumbo. The South’s culinary traditions are as rich and varied as its dazzling landscape, with influences from many different immigrant communities. In this region, you’ll find comforting dishes like fried green tomatoes, regional staples such as Mississippi catfish or grits, and delicious desserts such as pecan pie. Coastal regions here showcase seafood traditions that are renowned for their fresh flavor and captivating presentation.
Food competitions are a fascinating part of the American culture, and they reflect the pride that people feel for their local cuisine. From the age-old debate between New York and Chicago pizzas to the spirited rivalry between Maine and Massachusetts for the best lobster roll, regional food competitions showcase the distinct flavor profiles of each region.
Culinary techniques are the building blocks of gastronomy, and they embody the mastery and craftsmanship of a nation’s culinary heritage. They’re also the key to unlocking the secrets behind a region’s signature dishes, and they often reveal the cultural amalgamation that results from historical events such as colonization, exploration, or immigration.
Whether it’s a family dinner or a celebratory banquet, food plays an important role in bringing people together and marking significant milestones in life. The choice of dishes, the manner in which they are served, and the style of the meal itself all have a special significance that’s unique to each community. In this chapter, we’ll explore a variety of dining rituals from across the country to uncover the stories and recipes that make these celebrations so distinctive.
The cuisines of America are as diverse as its diverse people, and each region has a special dish that’s unique to its culture. Explore the unique flavors of each state and learn about the diverse ingredients that make up its culinary heritage. Embark on a culinary journey that spans the top 10 food cities in the United States, and savor each destination’s distinctive flavor.