Food in Kansas: A Delightful Culinary Journey
We’re about to embark on a delectable journey through the sunflower state, Kansas. This heartland state might be best known for its wheat fields, but did you know that Kansas has a fascinating and diverse food culture that’s just waiting to be discovered? From traditional home-cooked meals to innovative foodie trends, there’s a little bit of everything to sample.
1. Introduction to Kansas Cuisine
At first glance, Kansas food might seem to be all about barbeque, and while that is a significant part of their cuisine, there’s so much more to it. Kansas cuisine is a hearty mix of rich American traditions, local farm produce, and vibrant immigrant influences. You’ll find dishes here that represent Native American, German, Mexican, and various other cultures.
2. Barbecue: The Signature of Kansas
No conversation about Kansas food can start without its most renowned delicacy: Barbecue. Kansas City, in particular, is often considered a BBQ capital, boasting its unique style that’s loved nationwide. The region’s slow-cooked meats slathered in a thick, sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce is something you just can’t miss. And let’s not forget the mouth-watering ribs and burnt ends, which are considered a local speciality. Some of the famous BBQ joints to visit include Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Q39, and Arthur Bryant’s.
3. Bierocks: A Taste of the Old World
A legacy of the Volga German immigrants who settled in Kansas, Bierocks are delightful pastries filled with a mix of ground beef, cabbage, or sauerkraut and onions. This pocket of joy is the perfect comfort food, especially when served hot. You can find these delicacies at various locations, like the Breadbasket in Newton or Speakeasy in Leoti.
4. Kansas-Style Chili: The Winter Warmer
Chili might have its roots in the southern states, but Kansas has put its unique spin on it. Kansas-style chili is typically meaty, thick, and often contains no beans. It’s served with a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream, the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold winter’s day. Swing by Cozy Inn in Salina or The Anchor in Wichita for a bowlful.
5. Fried Chicken: Not Just Southern
Fried chicken in Kansas? Yes, it’s a thing! Kansas has a proud fried chicken tradition, particularly in the southeast region where Chicken Annie’s and Chicken Mary’s have been locked in friendly competition for years. Here, you can enjoy juicy fried chicken with a side of German-style potato salad and coleslaw.
6. Experiencing Kansas Through Its Local Produce
Kansas’s rich farmland delivers some of the freshest and tastiest produce you can find. Farmers markets, like the one in Overland Park, are excellent places to taste local fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goods. Don’t miss out on the sweet corn in the summer or the juicy tomatoes. Additionally, Kansas is renowned for its beef, being one of the largest beef-producing states in the US. A steak in Kansas is a must-try!
7. Sweet Treats: The Perfect Ending
Let’s talk about Kansas’s desserts. No food guide can be complete without addressing the sweet stuff, right? The sunflower state shines brightly when it comes to homemade, comfort food-style desserts. It’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth!
First on the list is the classic and beloved Bierock’s sweet cousin, the Povitica. This swirled and sweet bread of Croatian origin has layers of ground walnuts, butter, and cinnamon, often served during Christmas and Easter. The Strawberry Hill Povitica Company in Kansas City is renowned for their delicious varieties of this sweet treat.
8. The Prized Pralines
Another dessert that Kansas is known for is pralines. These little pieces of heaven are created with pecans, caramel, and cream. You can find the best pralines in Kansas at stores like Russell Stover or André’s Confiserie Suisse. These delightful candies are the perfect souvenir to remember your food journey in Kansas.
9. Wash It All Down: Kansas Beverages
And what’s good food without a refreshing drink to accompany it? In Kansas, you’ll find a thriving craft beer scene with many local breweries offering a wide range of beers. Try the different ales, lagers, and stouts at breweries like Free State Brewery in Lawrence or Wichita Brewing Company in Wichita. If beer isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Kansas’s wineries offer some delightful local wines, and you’ll find some exceptional coffee shops dotted across the state.
10. Kansas – A Foodie’s Paradise
In the end, what stands out about Kansas cuisine is its diversity and the Kansans’ passion for good, wholesome food. This state offers a blend of culinary traditions, cultures, and innovation that truly makes it a food lover’s paradise. So, whether you’re exploring the bustling restaurants of Kansas City or the charming farmers markets of small towns, every meal in Kansas will be an adventure that’s sure to delight your taste buds.