The United States is a country rich in culinary diversity, with foods that are beloved by locals but might seem odd to outsiders. From deep-fried concoctions to uniquely sweet combinations, American cuisine offers an array of dishes that can surprise and intrigue international visitors. This exploration highlights 19 popular foods in the US that often leave the rest of the world scratching their heads, while Americans savor every bite.
1. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is an iconic American staple enjoyed by people of all ages. It features creamy or chunky peanut butter paired with sweet jelly, typically grape or strawberry, spread between two slices of bread. This combination of sweet and salty flavors has been a beloved lunchbox item for decades.
While Americans cherish this simple delight, those from other cultures often find the mix of peanut butter and sweet jelly a curious choice. Yet, the nostalgia and simplicity of preparation make it a household favorite across the nation, embodying comfort in every bite.
2. Corn Dog
Corn dogs are a quintessential American fair food, often found at carnivals and amusement parks. A hot dog is skewered on a stick, dipped in a cornmeal batter, and deep-fried to a crispy golden brown. The result is a savory snack with a sweet cornbread exterior.
This combination of hot dog and cornbread might seem unusual to those unfamiliar with American street foods. However, its portability and satisfying crunch make it a fun and tasty treat. Often served with mustard or ketchup, corn dogs are a nostalgic favorite in the U.S.
3. Fried Butter
Fried butter is a decadent creation that pushes the boundaries of indulgence. Typically found at state fairs, butter is frozen, battered, and then deep-fried until crispy on the outside and melted inside. The result is a rich, buttery flavor explosion.
To outsiders, the idea of frying butter may seem excessive, but for adventurous food lovers, it’s a must-try. Often sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with syrup, fried butter is an experience in excess that captures the imagination and taste buds of those daring enough to try it.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a beloved dish, especially during Thanksgiving. Mashed sweet potatoes are sweetened and topped with a layer of marshmallows, then baked until golden.
This dessert-like side dish often perplexes non-Americans who aren’t accustomed to such sweet accompaniments with savory meals. Despite its unconventional nature, the combination of creamy sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows creates a comforting dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations in the United States.
5. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy is a hearty Southern breakfast favorite. Fluffy, buttery biscuits are topped with a thick, peppery sausage gravy, creating a savory dish that’s rich and filling.
While biscuits in other countries are often sweet, in the U.S., they serve as the perfect vehicle for savory gravies. This dish may perplex those unfamiliar with the American breakfast scene, but it’s a staple in Southern comfort cuisine. The warm, satisfying combination makes it a cherished classic among locals, especially in southern states.
6. Root Beer Float
The root beer float is a nostalgic American treat that combines creamy, vanilla ice cream with frothy root beer. Served in a tall glass, the ice cream slowly melts, creating a creamy, fizzy drink that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
To those unacquainted with root beer, the unique flavor of this soda, paired with ice cream, can be an acquired taste. However, the combination of sweet, creamy, and fizzy elements makes it a fun and memorable dessert beverage, especially in the summer months across the U.S.
7. Chicken and Waffles
Chicken and waffles is a soul food dish that merges savory and sweet flavors. Crispy fried chicken is served on top of soft, golden waffles, often drizzled with maple syrup.
This combination might baffle those unfamiliar with this iconic American pairing. However, the contrast between the crispy chicken and fluffy waffles, complemented by the syrup’s sweetness, creates a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s a popular brunch option and is especially loved in Southern regions, where it has become a symbol of comfort and indulgence.
8. Jell-O Salad
Jell-O salad is an American classic often seen at potlucks and family gatherings. This dish features flavored gelatin mixed with fruits, nuts, or even vegetables, sometimes topped with whipped cream.
Internationally, the concept of a gelatin salad might seem unusual, as salads are typically savory. However, in the U.S., Jell-O salads are a nostalgic nod to mid-20th-century cuisine. Their vibrant colors and sweet, fruity flavors make them a playful addition to any meal, loved for their whimsical presentation and versatility.
9. Twinkies
Twinkies are an iconic American snack cake, famous for their golden sponge cake exterior and creamy filling. These individually wrapped treats have been a staple in American lunchboxes for generations.
The high sugar content and long shelf life of Twinkies might surprise those unfamiliar with American snack culture. Nonetheless, they hold a special place in American pop culture and nostalgia. Despite debates over their nutritional value, Twinkies remain a beloved guilty pleasure for many, symbolizing a sweet escape into childhood memories.
10. Rocky Mountain Oysters
Rocky Mountain oysters are a regional delicacy often found in the western United States. Despite the name, they’re not seafood but rather deep-fried bull testicles, seasoned and served as an appetizer.
This dish often surprises those unfamiliar with it, due to its unconventional main ingredient. However, the crispy exterior and tender interior make it a unique culinary experience. Adventurous eaters might find it similar to other fried delicacies. Often served with dipping sauces, Rocky Mountain oysters are a conversation starter at gatherings and restaurants in the western U.S.
11. S’mores
S’mores are a quintessential American campfire treat, beloved by both children and adults. They consist of toasted marshmallows and a piece of chocolate sandwiched between graham crackers.
While the ingredients are simple, the experience of making s’mores around a campfire is cherished in the U.S. The gooey marshmallows and melting chocolate create a messy but delightful combination. For those who haven’t tried them, s’mores offer a taste of nostalgia and outdoor adventure, evoking memories of summer nights and camping trips across the country.
12. Grits
Grits are a Southern staple, often served as a breakfast dish in the United States. Made from ground corn, grits are boiled to a creamy consistency, sometimes enriched with butter, cheese, or even shrimp.
The texture and mild flavor of grits might seem unusual to those unfamiliar with Southern cuisine. However, they are a comforting and versatile dish, enjoyed both sweet and savory. In the U.S., grits are a symbol of Southern hospitality and warmth, often shared at family breakfasts and gatherings.
13. Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American comfort food, consisting of ground beef cooked in a tangy tomato sauce, served on a toasted bun. This messy, flavorful sandwich is a staple in school cafeterias and family dinners.
To those unfamiliar with the concept, the combination of sweet and tangy flavors in a sandwich might seem odd. However, the ease of preparation and satisfying taste make it a favorite. Sloppy Joes are often associated with casual dining and nostalgic memories of carefree meals during childhood.
14. Spam
Spam is a canned meat product made from pork and ham, known for its long shelf life and versatility. While Spam has international fans, its popularity in the U.S. remains a defining part of its culinary history.
For those unfamiliar with canned meats, Spam might seem peculiar due to its texture and processing. However, its convenience and adaptability in various dishes have earned it a place in American hearts. From frying slices for breakfast to incorporating it into regional specialties like Spam musubi, this product continues to be a unique staple in American pantries.
15. Frito Pie
Frito pie is a beloved Tex-Mex dish featuring corn chips topped with chili, cheese, and sometimes jalapeños. It’s often served in its original chip bag, making it a popular choice at sporting events and county fairs.
The idea of combining chips with chili might surprise some, but the savory and crunchy combination is undeniably satisfying. In the U.S., Frito pie represents a casual, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy on the go, capturing the essence of American ingenuity in snack foods.
16. Cheese Whiz
Cheese Whiz is a processed cheese product loved for its convenience and creamy texture. Dispensed from a can, it’s often used as a topping for crackers, nachos, or even vegetables.
The bright orange color and aerosol delivery might seem odd to those used to traditional cheese. However, in the U.S., Cheese Whiz is a symbol of quick, easy snacking, celebrated for its versatility. It adds a cheesy touch to countless dishes and remains a fun, albeit unconventional, pantry staple for many cheese lovers.
17. Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are a Southern delicacy, consisting of deep-fried cornmeal batter balls. They are typically served as a side dish with seafood.
Their crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make hush puppies a tasty addition to meals. While they may seem like an unusual use of cornmeal to those unfamiliar with Southern cuisine, their simplicity and deliciousness have made them a favorite. In the U.S., they evoke images of Southern hospitality and are enjoyed at fish fries and casual dining settings across the country.
18. American Cheese
American cheese is a processed cheese product known for its smooth texture and melting ability. It’s a staple in grilled cheese sandwiches and burgers across the U.S.
While some might question its authenticity as cheese, American cheese’s consistency and convenience are celebrated in casual dining. Its mild flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite for many classic American dishes. Despite debates over its cheese pedigree, it remains an integral part of the American culinary landscape, loved for its simplicity and nostalgic appeal.
19. Deep-Fried Twinkies
Deep-fried Twinkies take the beloved snack cake to another level by dipping them in batter and frying until crispy. This indulgent treat is often found at state fairs and carnivals.
While the idea of deep-frying an already sweet cake might seem excessive, the result is a warm, gooey delight. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, melty interior, making it a fun, albeit decadent, dessert. In the U.S., deep-fried Twinkies symbolize the adventurous spirit of fair food, encouraging visitors to try something whimsically over-the-top.