Western Foods that Have Become American Staples
American cuisine is a broad and diverse term, drawing on a variety of different influences from around the world. In particular, much of the food we eat today originated in Europe and has since become an integral part of American life. From savory snacks like pretzels to breakfast foods like crepes, there are several European-style dishes that have been embraced by US culture over the years. In this article, we’ll explore some western foods that have made the transition across continents and evolved into beloved staples in modern American kitchens. Grab your fork and join us for a delicious journey!
1. Hamburgers
The hamburger is a dish that has been around for thousands of years, with its initial presence in Europe as a street food. It has since gained great popularity and become an American staple, especially thanks to the invention of the drive-in fast food burger joint. Burgers now come in all shapes and sizes, with creative recipes boasting culinary innovation with almost every burger variant.
Alongside the traditional beef patty, ingredients such as tofu, tempeh and quinoa have also been used. The classic combination of ketchup, mustard, pickles and tomato slices has found new home in inventive combinations of mayonnaise-ketchup sauces, guacamole and slaw among other toppings. The hamburger continues to be one of America’s favorite dishes and a defining feature of its history.
2. Pizza
Pizza is an example of a Western food that has become an American staple. The contemporary pizza recipe was developed in Naples, Italy and is credited with being the world’s first fast food. Its portability and low cost helped spread its popularity worldwide throughout the 19th century.
It wasn’t until WWII, however, that it truly became a part of American culture. Servicemen returning home helped popularize the dish and over time its toppings have evolved to reflect diverse tastes across the country. Today pizza can be found everywhere from school cafeterias to fine dining establishments, making it as much of an icon of American culture as hot dogs or apple pie.
3. French Fries
French fries are a positively delicious staple in American cuisine. The origin of this savory dish is quite fascinating – French fries are a testament to the diverse and globalized world of food. Upon first impression, French fries may seem like a distinctly American food. However, the starchy fried strips actually originated from Belgium and were brought over to the United States by European immigrants. Since then, French fries have become a staple in the diets of Americans everywhere.
Other side dishes, such as mashed potatoes and coleslaw have also been influenced by Western cuisines and now feel right at home with classic American burgers and hotdogs. The cultural history of French fries is sure to leave you feeling both satisfied and curious all at once!
4. Tacos
Tacos are now ubiquitous across America, but their history has much further-reaching origins. Its roots stem from the traditional Mexican dish of soft or hard tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings. Tacos were first introduced in the United States during the 20th century, when an influx of Mexican immigrants arrived and began to open their own restaurants and taquerias.
Today, tacos that have become immensely popular in all 50 states—so much so that Americans consume nearly 4.5 billion tacos each year! Whether you enjoy fish tacos, chicken tacos, steak tacos, or beyond—chances are there’s a taco out there for you.
