When you think of American foods, diet-friendly doesn’t spring to mind. That is because Americans have a history of associating food with emotions. American dishes are often richer, sweeter, and saltier than ones from other countries.
Americans prefer flavor in a big way and never compromise on taste. Many American dishes have been adapted from recipes brought over by immigrants, which makes mealtimes as diverse as the culture.
American cuisine has its unique spin on recipes, influenced by several factors, including history and location. Below are 5 American dishes that you must try:
Apple Pie
It may surprise you to learn that the very first apple pie recipe was printed almost 650 years ago in England. Apple pie seems like such an American staple that you’d be forgiven for thinking it originated in the good old US of A.
Apple pie is a prize-winning recipe that marries an exemplary crust with baked apple pieces – the perfect combination of sweet and sour. One of the best tricks for making this quintessential representation of all that is good about pies is to use firm apples – some sweet and some tart.
When it comes to apple pie, taste, and texture are equally important.
Corn Dogs
Corn dogs are a combination of delicious ingredients, topped with your favorite condiment – they’re a hotdog on a stick, basically. The difference between a corn dog and a hotdog is the texture. Corn dogs get made using cornmeal, which has a grainier texture than your typical bread dough.
It has the perfect design: a hot dog on a wooden stick, coated with a layer of sweetened cornmeal batter – deep fried until golden brown. Try one or five if you’ve recently moved to New York – it doesn’t get much more American than that!
Tacos
Although tacos are authentically Mexican, the whole world can’t get enough of them – especially Americans. Tacos are the kind of food that doesn’t need a special time or place, anytime can be taco time!
Tacos use fresh, bright ingredients like lime, tomatoes, jalapenos, and cilantro to fill crispy shells. You can add just about anything into a taco, and it will work; fish, chicken, avocado, mince – you name it.
Class it up at your next dinner party by trying these American Wagyu tacos – they’ll be a hit!
Mac and Cheese
Hailed as one of the ultimate comfort foods – macaroni and cheese offers an incredible gustatory payoff. Starch, cheese, and cream. What’s not to love?
This dish brings families together, eases stress, and elevates us emotionally. During the end of the Great Depression, mac and cheese became a popular meal due to its low cost, something that remains true to this day.
Have it plain or fancy it up with different cheeses and crispy bacon – either way, it is comfort food at its best.
Chicken Potpie
Potpies have been an American favorite for generations. They typically include a flaky top and bottom crust, filled with tender chicken, beef, or pork, and loads of veggies for a hearty meal.
A serving of chicken pot pie is a great source of protein, healthy fats, carbs, and vitamins. Chicken is one of the best fillings because it is an effective lean protein to keep you keeping full.
These recipes are not only classics, they remind you of home and of a nostalgic time that has passed but will always hold a special place in your heart.
