What is Kansas famous for food | What to eat in Kansas

Kansas, also known as the Sunflower State, is a landlocked state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. Known for its vast prairies and rolling wheat fields, Kansas has a rich history of agriculture that has played a significant role in shaping its culinary culture. From hearty comfort foods to sweet treats, the state has a wide range of dishes that are sure to delight any food lover.

In this blog post, we’ll be exploring what Kansas is known for when it comes to food, what it’s famous for, and some of the best local dishes you can try when visiting the state. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to explore some new flavors, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious cuisine that Kansas has to offer!

What is Kansas known for food

Kansas is known for its diverse cuisine that includes a variety of meat dishes, fried foods, and hearty meals that are popular throughout the state. Here are famous local foods you should try in Kansas:

1. Barbecue

Kansas-style barbecue is known for its slow-cooked meats, especially beef and pork ribs, which are smoked over hickory wood and slathered with a tangy tomato-based sauce.

Kansas-style barbecue is a regional barbecue style that is known for its emphasis on slow-cooked meats, particularly beef, as well as its use of a tomato-based sauce. Kansas-style barbecue is also known for its emphasis on smoking, with many pitmasters using wood such as hickory or oak to add flavor to their meats.

In addition to beef, Kansas-style barbecue often includes other meats such as pork, chicken, and sausage. Some popular dishes in Kansas-style barbecue include burnt ends, which are the crispy ends of brisket, as well as ribs and pulled pork.

Kansas City is often considered the epicenter of Kansas-style barbecue, with many famous barbecue restaurants located in the area. These restaurants often compete in barbecue competitions and festivals, showcasing their unique styles and flavors.

Overall, Kansas-style barbecue is a delicious and popular regional style that is enjoyed by many barbecue enthusiasts around the world.

2. Bierocks

These hearty pockets of bread are filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and cabbage, and are a popular street food throughout the state.

Bierocks are a type of savory pastry that originated in Russia and Germany and were brought to the United States by German-Russian immigrants. The pastry is made of a yeast dough that is filled with a mixture of cooked ground beef, onions, and cabbage or sauerkraut. Some recipes also include garlic and spices like pepper and paprika.

The pastry is shaped into a ball or bun, and the filling is placed inside before the pastry is sealed and baked until golden brown. Bierocks can be served hot or cold and are often enjoyed as a snack or a meal.

Bierocks are a popular food in the state of Kansas, where they are often sold at fairs, festivals, and local bakeries. They are also commonly served at family gatherings and potlucks.

3. Chicken Fried Steak

This classic Southern dish is a staple of Kansas comfort food, featuring a breaded and fried steak smothered in creamy gravy.

Chicken Fried Steak is a popular dish in the state of Kansas, which consists of a breaded and fried cube steak that is typically served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. The dish is believed to have originated in the Southern United States but has become a popular comfort food in many regions of the country, including Kansas.

To make Kansas Chicken Fried Steak, a cube steak is first tenderized and seasoned with salt and pepper. It is then dredged in flour and sometimes dipped in an egg and milk mixture before being coated with a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. The steak is then fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

The steak is traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy made from the pan drippings, flour, and milk or cream. The gravy is often seasoned with black pepper and is poured generously over the steak and potatoes. Some variations of the dish include adding green beans or other vegetables on the side.

Kansas Chicken Fried Steak is a hearty and filling dish that is popular in diners and family restaurants throughout the state of Kansas.

4. Kansas-style chili

Kansas-style chili is made with beef, beans, and a spicy tomato-based sauce, and is often served over spaghetti or hot dogs.

Kansas-style chili is a unique twist on the classic American dish that originated in Texas. It is a thick and hearty chili that is made with a combination of ground beef, chili powder, tomatoes, and beans. However, what sets Kansas-style chili apart from other chili recipes is the addition of certain ingredients that are not typically found in other regional varieties.

For example, Kansas-style chili often includes cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder, which add a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the dish. Some recipes also call for the addition of beer, which adds a rich and complex flavor to the chili.

Kansas-style chili is typically served with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions. It is also often served over a bed of spaghetti noodles, which is known as “chili mac” or “chili spaghetti.”

Overall, Kansas-style chili is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for cold winter days or for serving at tailgating parties and other casual gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors and ingredients sets it apart from other chili recipes and makes it a favorite among many chili connoisseurs.

5. Cornbread

A staple of Southern cuisine, cornbread is a popular side dish in Kansas, and is often served with chili or barbecue.

Cornbread is a type of bread made with cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, and other ingredients that is popular in the state of Kansas. It is typically baked in a cast iron skillet or a baking dish and served as a side dish to accompany soups, stews, and other hearty meals.

The recipe for Kansas cornbread can vary depending on the region and the individual preferences of the cook. Some recipes call for a sweeter version of cornbread with the addition of sugar or honey, while others prefer a more savory version with the addition of bacon, cheese, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.

To make Kansas cornbread, the dry ingredients (cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt) are mixed together in a bowl, while the wet ingredients (eggs, milk, melted butter or oil) are mixed together in another bowl. The wet ingredients are then added to the dry ingredients, and the batter is stirred until just combined.

The batter is poured into a greased skillet or baking dish and baked in a preheated oven until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cornbread is then removed from the oven and allowed to cool for a few minutes before being sliced and served.

Kansas cornbread is a staple of many Kansas households and is often served at family gatherings and potlucks. It is a simple and comforting bread that pairs well with a variety of dishes and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

6. Fried Chicken

Crispy fried chicken is a favorite dish in Kansas, and is often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Kansas is known for its love of fried chicken, and there are many great places to try this delicious dish in the state. Some of the most popular establishments for fried chicken in Kansas include Stroud’s in Kansas City, Chicken Annie’s in Pittsburg, and the Brookville Hotel in Abilene.

In terms of taste, fried chicken in Kansas is typically seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs that give it a delicious, savory flavor. The chicken is usually coated in a mixture of flour and other ingredients before being deep-fried to create a crispy, golden brown exterior.

One thing that sets Kansas-style fried chicken apart from other regional variations is the use of lard or other animal fats for frying, which adds a unique richness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Overall, if you’re a fan of fried chicken, Kansas is definitely worth a visit to try some of the best fried chicken in the country!

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7. German Sausage

Kansas has a strong German heritage, and German-style sausages, such as bratwurst and kielbasa, are popular throughout the state.

Kansas is known for its rich German heritage, and one of the most popular culinary traditions that has been passed down from German settlers is the production of high-quality sausages.

There are many great places to try German-style sausages in Kansas, including the popular Werner’s Fine Sausages in Topeka, the St. Francis Sausage House in St. Francis, and the Tiefenthaler Quality Meats in Holton.

German-style sausages in Kansas are typically made with a blend of pork and beef, along with a variety of herbs and spices that give them their unique flavor. Some of the most popular varieties of German sausage in Kansas include bratwurst, knackwurst, and weisswurst.

German sausages are often served with traditional accompaniments such as sauerkraut, potato salad, and German-style mustard, and are a popular choice for outdoor barbecues and festivals throughout the state.

if you’re a fan of sausages and German cuisine, be sure to check out some of the fantastic German sausage options that Kansas has to offer!

8. Kansan Breakfast

This hearty breakfast consists of eggs, bacon or sausage, hash browns, and toast or biscuits and gravy, and is a favorite among locals.

Kansas is known for its hearty breakfasts that feature classic American fare, such as eggs, bacon, and pancakes, as well as some unique regional specialties.

Some of the most popular breakfast spots in Kansas include the Doo-Dah Diner in Wichita, the Farmhouse in Kansas City, and the Pioneer Bluffs Cafe in Matfield Green.

A classic Kansan breakfast often includes dishes like biscuits and gravy, fried eggs, bacon or sausage, and hash browns. Many restaurants also offer a breakfast burrito, breakfast sandwich, or omelet with a variety of fillings like cheese, bacon, and veggies.

In addition to traditional American breakfast dishes, some restaurants in Kansas offer unique regional specialties like chicken fried steak and waffles, which combines a Southern classic with a breakfast staple. Another popular dish is the German-style breakfast, which often includes smoked sausage, rye bread, and cheese.

Overall, whether you prefer classic American breakfast dishes or unique regional specialties, Kansas has something to offer for everyone’s taste.

9. Sunflower Bread

This artisan bread is made with sunflower seeds and wheat flour, and is a unique specialty of Kansas.

Sunflower Bread is a type of bread that is popular in the Midwestern United States, particularly in Kansas. This bread is made with a mixture of wheat and white flour, as well as sunflower seeds, which give it a unique flavor and texture.

To make Kansas Sunflower Bread, the ingredients are first mixed together and kneaded into a dough. The dough is then left to rise until it has doubled in size, before being shaped into loaves and baked in the oven.

Sunflower seeds are a key ingredient in this bread, both for their flavor and their nutritional benefits. Sunflower seeds are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium.

Kansas Sunflower Bread is often served sliced and toasted with butter or jam, or used as a base for sandwiches. It is a hearty and flavorful bread that is well-suited to the colder months of the year, and it is also a popular choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional white bread.

10. Wheat Beer

Kansas is one of the top wheat-producing states in the US, and wheat beer, such as the famous Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat, is a popular local brew.

A type of beer that is brewed with wheat as one of its main ingredients. Wheat beers are known for their light and refreshing flavor, as well as their cloudy appearance due to the presence of wheat proteins.

Kansas Wheat Beer is brewed using a combination of wheat and barley malt, as well as hops and yeast. The wheat gives the beer a smooth and creamy texture, while the hops add a slight bitterness and aroma. The yeast used in brewing also plays a significant role in the flavor of the beer, as different strains of yeast can produce different flavors and aromas.

Kansas Wheat Beer is often served chilled and is a popular choice for summertime drinking due to its refreshing qualities. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including salads, seafood, and grilled meats. Many breweries in Kansas produce their own version of Wheat Beer, with some adding additional ingredients such as fruit or spices to give the beer a unique twist.

Kansas Wheat Beer is a delicious and refreshing beer that is enjoyed by many beer lovers in the Midwest and beyond.

11. Kansas Chicken Spiedini

Kansas Chicken Spiedini is a dish that originated in Italy but has become popular in the United States, particularly in the state of Kansas. It is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, and then skewering the chicken and grilling it until it is cooked through and slightly charred.

The dish is typically served with a variety of side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, a salad, or bread. Some variations of Kansas Chicken Spiedini also include a sauce made from tomatoes, capers, and olives, which adds a tangy and slightly salty flavor to the dish.

Kansas Chicken Spiedini is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for outdoor grilling and summertime dining. The marinade and grilling process help to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a range of flavors, making it a popular choice for family meals and special occasions alike. It is also a versatile dish that can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit individual tastes.