One of the best things about travelling throughout the States is finding the smaller, locally owned diners and restaurants. Having lived and travelled throughout many regions here in the States, I can attest to memories of places that are associated with very specific flavors. For example, I went to college in the Pacific Northwest (Go Geoducks Go!) and my culinary memory of that place is smoked salmon from the Skokomish Indian Tribe. My memory of my years spent in Michigan is the flavor of venison and wild rice, cooked with foraged mushrooms and onions. The UP (Upper Peninsula of Michigan) is all about pasties (meat and veggie pies that can keep you going for a whole day). Louisiana is full of flavor: shrimp creole, gumbo, jambalaya, dirty rice, and Hoppin' John. San Jose has SO MANY delicious food options from all over the world but (for me) the flavor of San Jose is La Vic's Orange Sauce.
Every region has it's own flavor, brought together by the influences of many cultures. This goes way beyond the hamburgers, hot dogs, and french fries that are considered typical "American" foods. With new people comes new cultures, new music, new styles, and new flavors...all adding in to the mix. Our diversity is our strength, so let's bring it all together. There's plenty of room in the kitchen and at the table!
All-American Cooking
A Taste of New England
Hello New York!
Great Lakes Region/Native American Cooking
Next week we will continue our culinary adventure through the United States, heading South and West for our regional flavor tour. And there will be Veggie and Vegan options as well. Until Next Time....
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