How We Planned a Potluck for the Whole Country
We celebrate American cooking every day in the test kitchen, so we definitely weren’t going to let the country’s 250th go unacknowledged. A pull-out-all-the-stops potluck with recipes from across the country seemed the most fitting honor. So we did what we do every day at ATK: We cooked, we ate, and we had lively discussions while conducting extensive research to land on our
50-plus recipes for America’s Potluck.
Every state and inhabited U.S. territory has its own distinctive culture, history, and communities, and it all contributes to the local flavor. But for this historic summer, what dishes did we want on the table? We considered creamy clam chowder and even tender yet crispy
bar pizza to represent our home state of Massachusetts. But ultimately we all agreed that a festive
New England Clambake, loaded with native shellfish and corn on the cob, would be a welcome centerpiece at any summer party we got invited to.
All of these regional recipes are iconic for a reason, and many of them got that way by being staples at cookouts and get-togethers. We’re certain there are folks planning their holiday weekend menus around
Kansas City–Style Barbecue Ribs and tangy, smoky
Alabama BBQ Chicken. There are definitely people in Georgia planning to make
Vidalia Onion Dip as an appetizer, and likely many in
Utah and
Minnesota making potato side dishes. There may even be Montanans foraging right now for wild huckleberries to make Huckleberry Buckle. (Nowhere near Montana? Blueberries make a fine substitute in our recipe for this classic cake with streusel topping.)
Take a look at our choices and see what we picked for your state. And tune in to Good Morning America next week to hear Bridget, Julia, Lidey, Vallery, and me talk about it, too—we’re on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday!
Wherever you’re gathering this summer, we hope you find something delicious to share with your family and friends.
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