Dining and food culture in Missouri: Kansas City barbecue. Toasted ravioli specialty. St. Louis-style pizza. Regional wineries. Ozark cuisine influence. Historic farmer's markets. Springfield-style cashew chicken. Diverse local breweries. Seasonal festivals and fairs. Farm-to-table movement.
Kansas City barbecue
Kansas City Barbecue is a rich culinary tradition that began in the early 20th century with Henry Perry, who started barbecuing in an outdoor pit, and has since evolved into a diverse and eclectic style characterized by slow-smoked meats, a variety of meats including beef, pork, and more, and a unique sauce, making it a global culinary landmark with over 100 restaurants and a vibrant cultural scene. For a deeper dive into the history and flavors that make this barbecue so special, Visit KC provides an excellent overview of these Barbecue Beginnings, showcasing how this unique culinary tradition has become an integral part of the region’s identity.
Toasted ravioli specialty
Toasted Ravioli, a St. Louis specialty, is breaded and deep-fried ravioli typically served with a dipping sauce and Parmesan cheese. Its origin is disputed, with several restaurants in the Hill neighborhood, including Charlie Gitto's and Mama's on the Hill, claiming to be the creators of this accidental culinary delight in the 1940s. For more details on the origin story, visit Fox2Now and explore the intriguing history behind this beloved dish.
St. Louis-style pizza
St. Louis-style pizza is characterized by a thin, cracker-like crust made without yeast, topped with sweet tomato sauce and Provel cheese—a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone—and cut into squares or rectangles. This style is distinct for its crisp crust, unique cheese blend, and sweet tomato sauce, often associated with local restaurants and chains like Imo's Pizza.
Regional wineries
Missouri's regional wineries, particularly those in the Hermann Wine Trail and the Mississippi River Hills Wine Trail, offer a rich culinary experience with thematic events featuring wine and food pairings, showcasing the state's diverse wine styles and historic winemaking traditions. These wineries, many of which are family-owned and historic, provide a unique blend of local flavors and scenic beauty, highlighting Missouri's significant contribution to American winemaking history.
Ozark cuisine influence
Ozark cuisine, as represented by restaurants like Bulrush in St. Louis, emphasizes living off the land, hunting, subsistence farming, and preserving foods through curing, pickling, and storing. It incorporates influences from Native tribes, African Americans, and early settlers, highlighting the unique cultural and historical context of the Ozark region. To delve deeper into the culinary heritage of this area, visit the Ozark Cuisine Article that explores efforts to bring recognition and respect to this region's food and history.
Historic farmer's markets
Soulard Farmers Market, the oldest operating public market in St. Louis, Missouri, and one of the oldest west of the Mississippi River, has been a cornerstone of the city's food culture since 1779. It features over 140 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local goods, showcasing a rich history dating back to its founding by Antoine Soulard and the significant contributions of his widow, Julia Cerre Soulard. For more detailed information, visit the Soulard Farmers Market Wikipedia page to explore its historical significance and continued impact on the community.
Springfield-style cashew chicken
Springfield-style Cashew Chicken is a delectable regional dish originating from the Springfield and Joplin area of Missouri. This unique fusion cuisine features southern fried chicken nuggets served on a bed of fried rice, elegantly topped with oyster gravy, cashews, and green onions. It was crafted by a visionary Chinese immigrant chef, Leong, as an innovative blend of Southern and Chinese culinary traditions designed to appeal to local tastes. To delve deeper into this culinary creation, you can explore more at Springfield-style Cashew Chicken. This dish truly showcases the harmonious marriage of diverse flavors and cooking techniques.
Diverse local breweries
Missouri's diverse local breweries offer a rich dining and food culture, with many breweries like Schlafly, Boulevard Brewing Company, and Mother's Brewing Company providing a range of craft beers alongside family-friendly atmospheres and unique dining experiences. These breweries often feature local ingredients and European-inspired brews, making them a vibrant part of the community. For more information on these breweries, visit the Homebrew Academy website, which provides insights into the thriving brewing scene in Missouri.
Seasonal festivals and fairs
Missouri's dining and food culture is vibrant and celebrated through various seasonal festivals and fairs, including the St. Louis Micro Fest for craft beer, Taste of St. Louis for local culinary talent, American Royal World Series of Barbecue in Kansas City, and several events in Springfield such as Ozarks BeerFest, Taste of SoMo, and MO Food Truck Fest, each showcasing regional flavors, local breweries, and diverse culinary delights. These events offer a range of experiences from beer and wine tastings to live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. To explore more about these exciting happenings, visit the Best Food and Drink Events website for comprehensive details.
Farm-to-table movement
The Farm-to-Table movement in Missouri, as part of a broader national trend, involves restaurants sourcing ingredients directly from local farms to serve fresh, flavorful, and nutritious food. This movement supports local economies, enhances the quality of food, and promotes a closer connection between consumers, restaurants, and farmers. For more detailed information on this topic, you can visit the Farm-to-Table Meaning page. This initiative not only benefits local farmers by providing them a steady market but also enriches the dining experience by ensuring ingredients are seasonal and organically grown.