Some dishes define American eating. Here are ten of them and why each one earned its place.
1. Burgers
A juicy patty with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles between two buns. The appeal is customization: any topping or condiment works.
2. Pizza
Thin or thick crust, any topping, served in slices, eaten at any time of day. American pizza went global.
3. Hot dogs
A grilled sausage in a bun with mustard, ketchup, or onions. The staple of ballparks and backyard barbecues.
4. Fried chicken
Chicken coated in seasoned flour and fried until crispy and golden, usually with mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, or biscuits on the side.
5. Apple pie
A flaky crust filled with sliced apples and spices, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The classic American dessert.
6. Mac and cheese
Macaroni in a creamy cheese sauce. Simple comfort food that works as a side or a main.
7. BBQ ribs
Ribs slow-cooked over a grill or smoker until the meat falls off the bone, coated in BBQ sauce and served with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
8. Chili
Ground meat, beans, spices, and vegetables in one hearty pot, topped with cheese, sour cream, or onions.
9. Tacos
Mexican in origin, now a staple of American cooking. Ground beef, chicken, or seafood in a soft or hard shell with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and salsa.
10. Grilled cheese sandwich
Two slices of bread grilled with cheese in between, best with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping.