You probably already understand what Italian, Chinese, and Mexican cuisines offer. However, even as an American, you may find it more difficult to define American food. Because the country is a melting pot, the food we eat derives from countless other cultures. The information below should help you understand what defines American cuisine.

What Is American Food?

1. Diverse

It is impossible to sum up American food in a single definition. It includes indigenous foods that many Americans eat on Thanksgiving, such as turkey, succotash, potatoes, beans, and corn, yet it also includes meals from numerous other cultures and countries. Hamburgers, hotdogs, and pizza are among the most common dishes, but spaghetti, tacos, burritos, casseroles, soups, curries, and seafood of every stripe are also ubiquitous.

2. Regional

The U.S. is a very large country, and regional differences abound. For instance, Southern barbecue and soul food are popular in the southeast, while Mexican and South American cuisine are popular in the southwest. New York-style pizzas are vastly different from those served in Detroit or Chicago. New England seafood recipes differ from those available elsewhere, and some cities—think Philadelphia or Boston—are famous for their particular style of sandwiches or beans. 

3. Processed

Over the past hundred years, American food companies have begun supplying more and more processed foods. These make for easier preparation and longer shelf lives, but, in return, they contain more preservatives, salt, sugar, and oil. Nearly 2/3 of U.S. foods purchased from the grocery store are processed foods. Note that this includes frozen, prepackaged, and pasteurized foods, as well as "highly processed" foods like pastries, potato chips, and others typically labeled as "junk." This change toward food processing has dramatically affected how Americans eat. 

If you seek an exceptional American food restaurant for lunch or breakfast, stop by Belgian Waffle & Pancake House in Branson, MO. They are family-owned and -operated and draw committed customers from all over Taney County and the surrounding areas. They specialize in pancakes, waffles, sausage, bacon, and more. They are renowned throughout the region for their delicious food, friendly servers, and affordable prices. View a complete list of the American food they serve by visiting their website, or call (417) 334-8484 to ask about directions or hours of operation.