Why American Food is not as Simple as People Think

When most people think about American food, the first thing that comes to mind is the hamburger. The origin of this famous type of sandwich is disputed, in fact. There is evidence to suggest that America might not have invented it, but it has certainly played an important part in popularizing the combination of meat, bread, condiments and garnish. Still, falling back on this as the quintessential American food, as so many do, is a disservice to the breadth and flavors on offer from the world of American cuisine.

What is This About History?

When we look at the history of American food we need to take a look at the history of America itself. Whereas so many other countries remained in some degree of isolation and insulation, even in the modern age, the United States is a country with an enormous settler popular, now ranking it as one of the most populated countries on the planet. America is now home to a hugely diverse group of peoples, not just from Europe. These people brought with them not only their own culture, but their own histories, families, and lives to the new world. They also brought with them their food.

This means thousands of different types of food are now on offer all over America, in a melting pot of food which is unique in its sheer scale. We aren’t talking just traditional food either, as over time this food has evolved its own American bend, and has combined with the flavors on offer from other countries, and the ideas of the talented chefs who now call America their new home.

Chicago deep dish” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by musicisentropy

The Incredible Edible Choice

Choosing the right food from what America has to offer isn't simple, purely because of the variety which is on offer. Those with a sweet tooth can settle back for the traditional apple pie, a dessert as simple as it is delicious. Those of us after something a little heavier can go for the American-Italian style of deep-dish pizza. This Chicago-popularized meal combines the topping of a pizza with the depth of a pie and the satisfaction which comes from both.

Want something a little more outdoor? Look no further than the community building meals which comes from barbecue. Cooking outdoors, or just enjoying from a restaurant, these steaks, ribs, pulled pork and collard green have something for everyone, and match perfectly with a sunny afternoon, even for those of us outside of Texas.

To Dine in, or Take out?

As American food continued to evolve, so too did the methods of delivery. America was not the first country to invent delivery, but they certainly cut out their own path in bringing their own style of food delivery into the world. With modern businesses, it can even be possible to find restaurants which do not deliver but still offer takeout and have them deliver them straight to your door. With the evolution and spread of modern technology, all sorts of new methods have become available. Delivery by drone is now becoming a reality, making some of us fear birds for the first time in our lives. Yet other businesses have risen to help deliver food which offers takeout, yet do not deliver on their own. This means you don't even have to go out for takeout and can have it delivered to you in a matter of minutes. In fact, thanks to new types of delivery models, it's possible to get food delivered from high-end restaurants, many of which didn't run delivery services in the past.

Mmm… Mrs J’s Famous Apple Pie” (CC BY 2.0) by jeffreyw

Variety, Flavor, and Convenience

Every nation has a lot to offer when it comes to food. Every nation is unique in what they bring to the table. America is special in that it brings a combination of so many factors in such a way that no other country is yet able to achieve. What other countries have we almost always have here in America, in some form or another? Wherever you are from, whatever your diet and tastes, American food has your back. Not finding what you want? Then make your own! We're a proud nation of diversity, and we're always interested in new tastes.