10 Best Foods To Try In Mississippi | What is Mississippi known for food
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 21 Apr, 2023
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When it comes to southern cuisine, Mississippi certainly has a lot to offer. The Magnolia State is known for its delicious comfort foods, fresh seafood, and unique twists on classic southern dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore what Mississippi is known for when it comes to food, including some of the most famous and beloved dishes in the state. From gumbo to fried catfish, Mississippi’s food scene is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Whether you’re a native Mississippian or just passing through, be sure to try some of these delicious dishes and experience the rich culinary heritage of this southern state.
What to eat in Mississippi | What is Mississippi famous for food
Mississippi has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by its history and geography. Here are 10 famous Mississippi local foods and cuisine:
1.Fried catfish
Mississippi is famous for its fried catfish, a staple dish made by coating catfish fillets in seasoned cornmeal and deep-frying until crispy.
Fried catfish is a popular dish in Mississippi, which is often served with hush puppies, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. Catfish farming is a significant industry in the state, and Mississippi is one of the largest producers of farm-raised catfish in the United States.
The tradition of eating fried catfish in Mississippi dates back to the early 20th century when catfish were abundant in the state’s rivers and streams. The dish gained popularity during the Great Depression when catfish became an affordable source of protein for families. Today, fried catfish remains a staple of Mississippi cuisine and can be found in many restaurants throughout the state.
To prepare fried catfish, the fish is typically breaded in cornmeal or flour and then fried in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. The result is a delicious, crunchy exterior with tender, flaky fish inside. Hush puppies, which are small balls of cornmeal batter deep-fried until crispy, are often served alongside fried catfish as a tasty side dish.
2.Biscuits and gravy
This classic Southern breakfast dish is a popular comfort food in Mississippi, made with flaky biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy gravy.
Biscuits and gravy is a popular breakfast dish in Mississippi, as well as in other parts of the southern United States. The dish consists of flaky, buttery biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy gravy made from sausage or bacon drippings, flour, milk, and seasonings.
Biscuits and gravy is a simple and satisfying comfort food that has been enjoyed in Mississippi for generations. The dish is typically served for breakfast, often accompanied by eggs, grits, and other classic southern breakfast staples.
To make biscuits and gravy, first, the biscuits are made from scratch using flour, butter, milk, and baking powder. The dough is rolled out and cut into circles before being baked in the oven until golden brown. While the biscuits are baking, the gravy is made by cooking crumbled sausage or bacon in a skillet until browned and crispy. Flour is then added to the pan to create a roux, and milk is slowly whisked in to create a smooth, creamy gravy. The gravy is then poured over the hot biscuits and served immediately.
Biscuits and gravy is a hearty and filling breakfast that is perfect for starting the day off right. It is a classic southern dish that is loved by many in Mississippi and beyond.
3.Jambalaya
A spicy rice dish with Cajun and Creole roots, jambalaya is a staple of Southern cuisine and a beloved comfort food in Mississippi.
Jambalaya is a popular Cajun and Creole dish that is enjoyed in Mississippi, particularly in the southern parts of the state. The dish is a spicy and flavorful one-pot meal that typically consists of rice, vegetables, meat (such as chicken, sausage, or shrimp), and a variety of herbs and spices.
Jambalaya has its roots in Louisiana, but it has become a staple of southern cuisine and is often enjoyed in Mississippi. There are many variations of jambalaya, but most include the “holy trinity” of Cajun and Creole cooking – onions, celery, and bell peppers – as well as tomatoes, garlic, and a mixture of herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
To make jambalaya, the meat is first browned in a large pot or Dutch oven, then removed from the pot and set aside. The vegetables are then sautéed in the same pot until they are softened and fragrant. Rice, chicken broth, and seasonings are added to the pot and brought to a boil. The meat is then added back into the pot, along with any additional ingredients like shrimp or Andouille sausage. The jambalaya is simmered until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Jambalaya is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. It is a staple of Mississippi cuisine and is enjoyed by many throughout the state.
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4.Barbecue
Mississippi is known for its slow-cooked barbecue, which can be made with pork, beef, or chicken and is often served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Barbecue is a beloved food in Mississippi and is an integral part of the state’s cuisine. Mississippi-style barbecue is often characterized by its smoky and tangy flavors, as well as its emphasis on pork, chicken, and beef.
There are several different styles of barbecue in Mississippi, but most involve slow-cooking meat over wood or charcoal and using a sauce to add flavor and moisture to the meat. Some popular barbecue sauces in Mississippi include vinegar-based sauces, tomato-based sauces, and mustard-based sauces.
One of the most famous styles of barbecue in Mississippi is “Southern-style” barbecue, which typically involves cooking pork ribs, pulled pork, or brisket over a wood fire and using a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce. Memphis-style barbecue, which is known for its dry rubs and slow-cooked pork shoulder, is also popular in Mississippi.
Barbecue is often served at outdoor events and gatherings in Mississippi, such as picnics, tailgates, and barbecues. In addition to the meat, barbecue plates are often accompanied by sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad.
Overall, barbecue is a beloved and delicious part of Mississippi cuisine, and there are many fantastic barbecue restaurants and pitmasters throughout the state that serve up some of the best barbecue in the country.
5.Pecan pie
Made with locally grown pecans, Mississippi pecan pie is a sweet and rich dessert that is a must-try for anyone visiting the state.
Pecan pie is a classic southern dessert that is beloved in Mississippi and throughout the southern United States. The pie is made with a flaky crust and a filling of pecans, eggs, sugar, and corn syrup.
Pecans are a major crop in Mississippi, and many local bakeries and restaurants use fresh, locally grown pecans to make their pecan pies. The filling of the pie is typically sweet and gooey, with a caramel-like flavor and a slightly crunchy texture from the pecans.
To make a pecan pie, the crust is first prepared by combining flour, butter, and water, and then rolling it out and fitting it into a pie dish. The filling is then made by whisking together eggs, sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract, before folding in the pecans. The filling is then poured into the prepared crust and baked until it is set and golden brown.
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that is perfect for holidays and special occasions, but it is also enjoyed as a sweet treat any time of the year. It is a staple of Mississippi cuisine and is often served alongside other southern desserts like sweet potato pie and peach cobbler.
6.Shrimp and grits
A Southern classic, shrimp and grits is a delicious combination of tender shrimp and creamy grits, often served with a spicy tomato sauce.
Shrimp and grits is a classic southern dish that is popular in Mississippi, particularly in the coastal regions of the state. The dish typically consists of shrimp that are sautéed in a buttery, garlicky sauce and served over a bed of creamy, stone-ground grits.
To make shrimp and grits, the grits are first prepared by boiling water or chicken broth and slowly whisking in stone-ground grits until they are smooth and creamy. The grits are then seasoned with salt, butter, and sometimes cheese or bacon. The shrimp are then cooked in a skillet with butter, garlic, and a variety of spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Some recipes also call for additional ingredients like bacon, sausage, or diced tomatoes.
Once the shrimp and grits are both prepared, the shrimp are spooned over the top of the grits and served immediately. The dish is often garnished with chopped scallions or parsley and served with a side of crusty bread or biscuits.
Shrimp and grits is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. It is a staple of Mississippi cuisine and is often enjoyed at local seafood restaurants and cafes.
7.Tamales
Mississippi-style tamales are a unique regional variation of the classic Mexican dish, made with cornmeal dough and filled with seasoned meat, often served with chili sauce.
Tamales are a popular food in Mississippi and are a staple of the state’s cuisine, particularly in the Delta region. Mississippi-style tamales are typically made with a spiced meat filling that is wrapped in a cornmeal dough and steamed until tender.
The history of tamales in Mississippi can be traced back to the late 1800s, when migrant workers from Mexico and Central America introduced the dish to the region. Over time, Mississippi-style tamales evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, and they became a popular comfort food in the state.
To make Mississippi-style tamales, a spiced meat filling is prepared using ingredients like ground beef, pork, or chicken, along with spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The filling is then wrapped in a cornmeal dough made with masa harina (a type of corn flour), salt, and water. The tamales are then tightly wrapped in corn husks and steamed until the dough is cooked through.
Tamales are often served with a variety of accompaniments, such as hot sauce, chopped onions, and grated cheese. In Mississippi, tamales are often sold at roadside stands and small restaurants, and they are a popular snack or meal on the go.
Overall, tamales are a delicious and unique part of Mississippi cuisine, and they offer a tasty blend of Mexican and southern flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate.
8.Sweet tea
Mississippians love their sweet tea, a refreshing beverage made by steeping tea bags in boiling water and adding sugar to taste.
Sweet tea is a beloved beverage in Mississippi and throughout the southern United States. It is a cold, refreshing drink made with tea, sugar, and sometimes lemon, and it is a staple of southern hospitality.
To make sweet tea, tea bags are first steeped in hot water to make a strong brew. Sugar is then added to the hot tea and stirred until dissolved. The tea is then chilled in the refrigerator until it is cold, and it is often served over ice with a wedge of lemon.
Sweet tea is a popular drink in Mississippi and is often enjoyed with meals or as a refreshing drink on a hot day. It is also a staple at social gatherings and events, such as picnics, barbecues, and parties.
In Mississippi, sweet tea is often served alongside other classic southern foods like fried chicken, biscuits, and macaroni and cheese. Many restaurants and cafes in the state offer sweet tea as a beverage option, and some even offer it in different flavors, such as peach or raspberry.
Overall, sweet tea is a delicious and refreshing drink that is a beloved part of Mississippi cuisine and southern culture. It is a symbol of hospitality and a reminder of the simple pleasures of southern living.
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9.Hot tamales
Another variation of the tamale, hot tamales are a spicy and flavorful dish made with cornmeal dough and chili seasoning.
Hot tamales are a type of spicy, meat-filled tamale that are a beloved part of Mississippi cuisine, particularly in the Mississippi Delta region. These tamales are made with a unique blend of spices and are typically served hot and spicy.
The history of hot tamales in Mississippi can be traced back to the early 1900s, when migrant workers from Mexico and Central America introduced the dish to the region. Over time, the recipe for hot tamales evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, and it became a popular comfort food in the state.
To make hot tamales, a spiced meat filling is prepared using ingredients like ground beef, pork, or chicken, along with spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The filling is then wrapped in a cornmeal dough made with masa harina, salt, and water, and tightly wrapped in corn husks. The tamales are then steamed until the dough is cooked through.
Hot tamales are often served with a spicy chili sauce and sometimes topped with shredded cheese or chopped onions. In Mississippi, hot tamales are often sold at roadside stands and small restaurants, and they are a popular snack or meal on the go.
Overall, hot tamales are a unique and delicious part of Mississippi cuisine, and they offer a flavorful blend of Mexican and southern flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate.
10.Fried chicken
Mississippi-style fried chicken is a classic comfort food, made by dredging chicken in seasoned flour and deep-frying until crispy and golden-brown.
Fried chicken is a classic dish in Mississippi cuisine and is a beloved part of southern cooking in general. It is made by coating chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture and then frying them until golden brown and crispy.
To make fried chicken, chicken pieces are first seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. They are then coated in a mixture of flour and additional spices, which creates a crispy coating when fried. The chicken is then fried in hot oil until it is cooked through and golden brown.
Fried chicken is a staple food in Mississippi and is often served alongside other classic southern dishes like collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and biscuits. It is also a popular food for picnics, barbecues, and other outdoor events.
In Mississippi, fried chicken is often served at local restaurants and cafes, as well as at popular chain restaurants like Popeyes and KFC. Some Mississippi restaurants are famous for their fried chicken, and people come from all over the country to try it.
Overall, fried chicken is a delicious and iconic part of Mississippi cuisine, and it offers a satisfying blend of crispy, savory flavors that are sure to please any palate.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods and cuisines that are unique to Mississippi, and they are a testament to the state’s rich culinary heritage and traditions.
FAQs:
Q: What are some must-try foods in Mississippi?
A: Mississippi is known for its Southern cuisine, and some must-try dishes include fried catfish, barbecue, hot tamales, fried chicken, and biscuits and gravy.
Q: Where can I find the best fried catfish in Mississippi?
A: Some popular spots for fried catfish include The Old Country Store in Lorman, Jerry’s Catfish House in Florence, and Mama Hamil’s in Madison.
Q: What is Mississippi-style barbecue?
A: Mississippi-style barbecue typically involves slow-cooking meats, such as pork or beef, over hickory wood and then serving them with a sweet and tangy sauce.
Q: What are hot tamales in Mississippi?
A: Hot tamales in Mississippi are a regional specialty that consist of cornmeal dough filled with seasoned meat and then wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
Q: Where can I find the best hot tamales in Mississippi?
A: Some popular spots for hot tamales include Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville, White Front Cafe in Rosedale, and The Senator’s Place in Cleveland.
Q: What desserts are popular in Mississippi?
A: Some popular desserts in Mississippi include pecan pie, banana pudding, and sweet potato pie.
Q: Where can I find the best pecan pie in Mississippi?
A: Some popular spots for pecan pie include The Crystal Grill in Greenwood, The Old Capitol Inn in Jackson, and The Biscuit Pit in Southaven.