10 Underrated Regional American Dishes That Deserve More Attention

When it comes to American cuisine, dishes like hamburgers, hot dogs, and apple pie are often the first to come to mind. However, the United States is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, with each region boasting its own unique culinary delights. From the hearty comfort food of the Midwest to the fresh seafood of the Pacific Northwest, there’s a wealth of underrated regional American dishes that deserve more attention. Let’s take a culinary journey across the country and explore 10 of these hidden gems.

1. Cincinnati Chili (Ohio)

Unlike traditional chili, Cincinnati Chili is a Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs, often topped with a mountain of shredded cheese. It’s a staple in Cincinnati and a must-try for any food lover.

2. Loco Moco (Hawaii)

This hearty Hawaiian dish consists of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It’s a comfort food classic that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

3. Scrapple (Mid-Atlantic)

Scrapple is a breakfast meat made from pork scraps and cornmeal, then sliced and pan-fried. It’s a beloved dish in the Mid-Atlantic states, particularly in Pennsylvania and Delaware.

4. Hot Brown (Kentucky)

The Hot Brown is an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon and Mornay sauce, then broiled until the sauce begins to brown. It was created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, and is a delicious twist on the traditional turkey sandwich.

5. Hoppin’ John (South Carolina)

Hoppin’ John is a simple, flavorful dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and pork. It’s a New Year’s Day tradition in South Carolina, believed to bring good luck for the coming year.

6. Pasties (Michigan)

Pasties are savory hand pies filled with meat and vegetables, originally brought to Michigan by Cornish miners. They’re a hearty, portable meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day.

7. Green Chile Stew (New Mexico)

This spicy stew is made with pork, potatoes, and plenty of New Mexico’s famous green chiles. It’s a warming, comforting dish that’s a staple in New Mexican cuisine.

8. Lobster Roll (Maine)

While not exactly underrated, the Maine lobster roll deserves more attention outside of New England. It’s a simple dish – fresh lobster meat served on a grilled hot dog bun – but the quality of the lobster makes it a standout.

9. Gumbo (Louisiana)

Gumbo is a rich, hearty stew made with meat and/or seafood and served over rice. It’s a staple in Louisiana cuisine, with countless variations depending on the cook’s preference.

10. Clam Chowder (Pacific Northwest)

While New England clam chowder is well-known, the Pacific Northwest version deserves recognition too. It’s a creamy, comforting soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and onions, perfect for a rainy day in Seattle or Portland.

These are just a few of the many regional American dishes that deserve more attention. Each one tells a story about its region’s history, culture, and culinary traditions, making them not just delicious meals, but also fascinating cultural artifacts.