American cuisine is a broad and diverse culinary tradition. It is influenced by Native Americans, Europeans, and immigrants from other cultures.
As America’s population and eating habits change, the search for a universally agreed-upon definition of “American” food has become increasingly difficult. But, as food writers and chefs grapple with this thorny issue, some seem to be getting closer to a clearer understanding of what it means to make American cuisine.
Fried Chicken and Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits surround juicy fried chicken in this classic Southern dish. It’s one of the easiest, most satisfying meals you can make at home!
In addition to being a deliciously simple meal, this recipe also features an excellent technique for tender, crispy fried chicken. Brining the chicken in buttermilk gives it a unique flavor that you won’t find elsewhere.
For a fun twist, try adding a bit of red pepper jelly to the dredge. This bright and sweet sauce adds just enough spice to balance out the salty dredge.
American Steakhouses
Whether it’s the dry-aged porterhouse at Michelin-starred Peter Luger in Brooklyn or a burger at The Edge, steak is something that people love to eat. And when you ask them why, they usually say it’s the taste of the meat and the presentation.
In a world where the plant-based revolution threatens its existence, American steakhouses remain a beloved institution. But in the past few years, they’ve faced a number of challenges.
But today, ambitious chefs are turning to the steakhouse as a resurgence has begun. These new iterations are lighter on the meat and heavier on the style, balancing virtuosity with fidelity, theme with variation.
Southern Dishes
Southern cuisine is a uniquely American blend of ingredients, techniques and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. It varies by region but there are many common characteristics across all Southern dishes.
Fried chicken and hot sauce, sweet tea, barbecue–these are all staples of traditional Southern cuisine. But beyond these iconic dishes, there are also a wide range of classics that have been around for centuries.
Despite its love for frying, Southern food also incorporates a healthy amount of fresh vegetables. Collard greens and mustard greens are two popular Southern vegetables that are often topped with meat or served as a side dish.
There are also several popular desserts that are a part of Southern cooking, including peach cobbler and sweet potato pie. These dishes are known for their rich flavor and comforting texture.
American Barbecue
There’s something magical about glistening, fatty brisket, tender glazed pork chops, and racks upon racks of ribs. It’s easy to see why barbecue is a popular American dish that’s favored by the whole country.
There are four major regional barbecue styles, each with its own unique flavors and cooking techniques. These include Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, Memphis-style, and Texas-style.
One of the most interesting aspects of these barbecue traditions is that they are based on an indigenous technique that originated with Indians, who are known to slow-cook meat over sticks and saplings. This cooking method is also believed to have spread to the southern United States as enslaved people were forced to work with cotton.
Sourdough Bread
Sourdough is a unique type of bread that’s naturally leavened by lactic acid bacteria and yeast. It has a distinctive flavor and texture, and it’s easy to make at home.
Sourdough bread is made by mixing a liquid starter culture with flour and water. The starter contains the friendly bacteria Lactobacillus and wild yeast that work together to create byproducts that help the dough rise.
The fermenting process also improves the nutrient profile of sourdough bread, which helps absorb B vitamins and frees some minerals from the flour. Additionally, it helps break down gluten proteins found in wheat, which can cause digestive issues for some people.
