Underrated Culinary Gems From Around the World
When thinking of typical meals from a particular culture, we often gravitate towards the more popular and internationally recognized dishes. However, there are plenty of dishes that, while not as widely known, hold a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy them. From the Southern Appalachians to Australia, let’s explore some underrated culinary gems from around the world.
Humble Meals with Big Flavors
The Appalachian Pinto Beans and Cornbread: In the Southern Appalachia region, a simple dish like pinto beans and cornbread is a staple. The beans are slow-cooked all day, often with the addition of pork fat, while cornbread is cooked in a scorching-hot cast iron pan, giving it a crisp bottom. This dish is not only cheap and filling but also rich in protein. My parents often mentioned that their family ate it for supper every single day, as it provided sustenance during the colder months. Even today, it holds a nostalgic place in my heart, much like a warm blanket on a cold day.
This humble meal, made with dried beans and cornmeal that can be stored without refrigeration, and supplemented with easily stored ingredients like onions and canned “chow chow,” was a reliable source of nourishment during the winter. The salt-cured fat from the pig, which was often slaughtered in the fall, added extra flavor to the beans and greens. Simple, yet delicious, it remains a cherished memory.
The Most Classic American Dish
Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger and Macaroni: When it comes to quintessentially American dishes, few can match the simplicity and nostalgia of Hamburger Helper cheeseburger and macaroni. This dish, often referred to as "industrial culture," represents the efficiency and convenience of the American way of life. While it may not be the most gourmet meal, it holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. For my fellow expatriates, nothing was more comforting than this familiar meal after months of being away from home.
Every time I returned from deployment, the first meal I craved was a cheeseburger with macaroni and Hamburger Helper. Although it wasn’t served in overseas chow halls, it blended perfectly with the American spirit. To make it even more American, adding slices of American cheese would be a must. This dish reminds us of home, comfort, and the familiar tastes of our youth.
Australian BBQ with a Twist
The Humble Lamington: South of the equator, the outdoor BBQ with sausages, steaks, and beer is a classic, but the humble lamington is often overlooked. A soft, fluffy sponge cake filled with cream (or sometimes sticky sweet jam) and topped with desiccated coconut, the lamington is a sweet treat that has been a part of Australian culture since the 1800s. It was the epitome of the all-round sweet in the 1980s and 1990s, and remember, it’s a simpler era, where no fancy desserts were introduced just yet.
Visitors and events were never complete without a hearty box of lamingtons. Whether it was a fancy dinner, a backyard BBQ, a school fundraiser, or a casual coffee shop, the humble lamington always made an appearance. However, with the advent of more sophisticated coffee and desserts, the lamington’s popularity began to wane. Today, the image of a fat kid with cake crumbs and jam on their face is often associated with lamingtons, despite their undeniable deliciousness. They are a simple yet delightful treat that can never be replaced.
These underrated dishes highlight the beauty of regional and national cuisine. They offer a glimpse into the history and traditions of different cultures, and remind us that sometimes, the simplest meals can be the most memorable.