The United States is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in the food that is popular here. There are many foods that originated in other countries but have become staples in the American diet. Here are seven favorite foods that come from elsewhere!
There’s nothing better than trying out different restaurants and foods, letting your taste buds enjoy a range of taste sensations. But many of the foods we most love in the United States actually originated elsewhere. Here are seven of our nation’s favorite foods, and some interesting facts about when and where they came from.
1. Pizza
You can’t mention favorite foods of Americans without bringing up pizza! Although pizza may be one of the most popular foods in the world, it originated in Italy. The first pizzeria in America opened in 1905, and since then pizza has become a staple in the American diet. Proper Italian pizza was first made in Naples, and it is still considered to be the best place to get pizza today. Although we love to load up our pizzas with dozens of toppings in the States, the traditional Neapolitan pizza – which is pizza from Naples – is simply made with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and olive oil.
2. Tamales
Tamales are another favorite food in the United States, and this food has its origins in Mexico. Tamales are made of corn dough that is filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese, and then wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf. They are then steamed until they are cooked through. Tamales can be found all over Mexico, and they are a popular street food. In the United States, tamales are often served as part of a Mexican-style meal, or simply as a snack to go. In Mexico, tamales first became popular in the Aztec civilization, and they are still a big part of Mexican culture today.
3. Pho
Pho is a Vietnamese soup that consists of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. It is a popular street food in Vietnam, and it is also becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Pho originally came from northern Vietnam, and it became popular in the south during the Vietnam War. When Vietnamese refugees came to the United States, they brought pho with them, and it has since become a staple in Vietnamese restaurants, or in standalone pho restaurants. Pho can be made with beef or chicken, and it is often served with a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.
4. Sushi
Sushi is a Japanese dish that consists of cooked rice that is seasoned with vinegar, and then it is rolled with fish or vegetables. It is a popular food in Japan, and it is also a staple in the United States, with many people grabbing sushi for lunch, or for high end meals in the evenings. Sushi originated in Southeast Asia, and it is thought to have come to Japan in the eighth century. The original sushi was actually just a way to preserve fish, by fermenting it in rice and vinegar. Now, sushi is a popular food all over the world, and it comes in many different varieties.
5. Falafel
Falafel is a deep fried ball or patty that is made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. It is a popular street food in the Middle East, and it is also becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Falafel originated in Egypt, and it is thought to have come to the Middle East during the Arab conquest. Falafel is often served in a pita pocket, or on a plate with salad and tahini sauce. It is a popular food for vegetarians, as it is a hearty and filling meal that is packed with protein.
6. Hummus
Hummus is a dip or spread that is made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. It is a popular food in the Middle East, and it is also becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Hummus originated in Egypt, and it is thought to have come to the Middle East during the Arab conquest, just like falafel. Hummus is often served with pita bread, or as a dip for vegetables. It is a popular food for vegetarians, as it is a healthy and filling accompaniment to a meal that is high in protein and vitamins. It’s also a great addition to sandwiches, and a good food for kids too.
7. Indian Curry
Curry is a dish that is made from a variety of different spices, and it can be made with meat or vegetables. It is a popular food in India, and it has traditionally been more popular in places such as the United Kingdom. However, it is also becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Curry originated in India, and it is thought to have come to the United Kingdom during the British Raj. Curry is often served with rice or naan bread, and it is a popular food for take-out or home-cooked meals. It can be made mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
So there you have it, seven favorite foods in the United States that come from elsewhere. What are your favorite foods from other countries?