Tailgate spreads can be as varied as the teams to which they’re dedicated. For every fan who swears by wings and IPAs, there’s another insisting that nothing can beat a cold-cut platter.
When it comes to some of the best of tailgate traditions, Brian Cullen breaks down the ones that stand out the most for Tailgate Fan.
- Cincinnati Chili. A serving of chili served Cincinnati-style means it’s ladle over spaghetti (Skyline is the most famous example). You have the option of adding cheddar, onions, or beans.
- Walking Tacos. In South Bend, walking tacos are a form of Frito pie: Meat and other taco fixings piled inside a bag of Fritos.
- Kummelweck. Also known as beef on weck, this sandwich from Buffalo, New York is all thin slices of roast beef held by a roll peppered with kosher salt and caraway seeds. It’s finished with a dip in au jus and smear of horseradish.
- Cochon de Lait. This dish of roasted suckling is a Louisiana classic at celebrations.
- Beer Can Chicken. Grilled sitting over an open can of beer, chicken cooked this way stay moist and tender thanks to the evaporation.
- Buffalo Wings. A classic from Buffalo, these wings are deep-fried then tossed in a hot sauce mix. Each plate is typically dressed with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing
- Philly Cheesesteak. While chefs from the City of Brotherly Love may have ventured to new areas in food, a steak sandwich covered in cheese remains a classic.
- Clam Chowder. The New England cream-based seafood soup keeps the ingredients mostly to potatoes, clams, and milk or cream.
- Barbecue. Both Kansas City and Austin get a shout-out, thanks the sauce from KC and prime beef barbecued Central Texan-style.
[via Tailgate Fan]