Each state has a lot to offer when it comes to food. With a rich and vast history, each sector of the United States has developed its own culinary staples. You may be able to think of some of the best hamburgers, best pizzerias, and best coffee shops for each state, but do you know there’s a specific food that each place is known for that goes beyond traditional restaurants? Some of these food choices may even come as a surprise.
New Jersey: Northern highbush blueberry
Blueberries are native to New Jersey and were the state’s gateway into the agricultural industry. Not to mention, the fruit is incredibly healthy due to its high amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. A fourth-grade class campaigned to the state government to successfully declare the blueberry the official state fruit.
The people of New Mexico claim their state is the chile capital of the world, as the peppers bring a sense of pride to residents—and even though chiles are technically fruits, they’re officially New Mexico’s state vegetable. Used in all kinds of dishes including enchiladas, tamales, burritos, and huevos rancheros, chile is a signature flavor you’ll find throughout New Mexico.
We all know New York City as the Big Apple, but the whole state is dedicated to the fruit. Apples were declared the state fruit in 1976, and New York is the second largest U.S. producer of apples after Washington State. With so many options, from Macoun and Cortland to Empire and Honey Crisp (my personal favorite), there’s an apple for everybody if you go apple picking in the Empire State.
Mississippi: Mississippi mud pie
While Mississippi doesn’t have any official state foods, it would be remiss not to mention the classic Mississippi mud pie. This chocolate-based pie is composed of chocolate pudding, cake, ice cream, whipped cream, and liqueur in a crust. It’s believed that Mississippi mud pie evolved from Mississippi mud cake, which became popular during World War II.
Traditional Food from Virginia – What to eat in Virginia
FAQ
What food is Virginia famous for?
What is the state food of Washington?
Does Virginia have Southern food?
What does Virginia food taste like?
When it comes to Virginia cuisine, our food is as intertwined with history as it is taste. Virginia is known for its southern-style fare including oysters, peanuts, BBQ, country ham, blue crabs, trout, apples, and Brunswick stew. Many recognize these Virginia foods but don’t know the origin or how they became a tradition on our tables.
What to eat in Virginia?
Trout thrive in the cooler streams of Virginia’s mountains where seasoned anglers wade in the water to fly fish while surrounded by scenic beauty. Traditional cooking techniques include applewood smoked, cornmeal crusted, and almondine, which can be found on menu’s in the western part of the state.
Why do Virginians eat home-cooked food?
Here in Virginia, we love our home-cooked meals. Mostly because they are always delicious, but there’s also a hint of nostalgia that comes into play. Certain dishes have a way of evoking memories of family gatherings, celebrations, or other festivities where delicious and traditional food takes center stage.
Does Virginia have a BBQ?
Vinegar and salt were used by the early settlers and they both went into adding flavor to these slow-cooked meats. Uniquely, Virginia’s BBQ varies based on the region you’re in – tomato-mustard blends, herb-based, and even Worcestershire-based flavor profiles can be found in this one state.