Introduction
Imagine the sun setting over the Oklahoma prairie, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of smoky barbecue. Oklahoma, a state often overlooked in culinary conversations, holds a treasure trove of flavors, a delightful blend of Native American heritage, Southern comfort, and Tex-Mex zest. It’s a place where the land provides, and the people know how to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. This isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about experiencing the heart and soul of Oklahoma through its food. So, dust off your boots, bring your appetite, and join us as we explore the most famous and iconic foods that the Sooner State has to offer. Prepare to be surprised, delighted, and undeniably hungry as we uncover Oklahoma’s diverse culinary landscape.
Oklahoma’s unique food scene is a reflection of its history. Influenced by Native American traditions, Southern cooking techniques, and the proximity to Texas and Mexico, it offers a delightful array of dishes that are both comforting and unique. From the smoky barbecue that permeates the air to the savory chicken fried steak that graces many a dinner plate, Oklahoma’s famous food provides a true taste of the state’s character.
Oklahoma’s BBQ Scene
Barbecue is more than just food in Oklahoma; it’s a way of life. It’s about gathering with friends and family, enjoying the slow-cooked flavors, and savoring the simple pleasures of life. Oklahoma-style barbecue generally features a mix of meats, including ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and sausage. While Texas barbecue often focuses on brisket alone, Oklahoma embraces a wider variety. The rubs tend to be a bit sweeter than those found further south, and the sauces often lean towards a tangy tomato-based flavor with a hint of sweetness. Smoking is king, of course, usually utilizing hickory or pecan wood to infuse the meat with that unmistakable smoky character. Across the state, from roadside shacks to bustling city restaurants, the aroma of wood smoke signals a delicious experience awaits.
Famous BBQ Joints and What to Order
One standout establishment is Leo’s BBQ in Oklahoma City. Leo’s has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue for decades and is a true Oklahoma institution. Their ribs are legendary, perfectly seasoned, smoked to tender perfection, and slathered in their signature sauce. The hot links are another must-try, offering a fiery kick that complements the smoky flavors.
Then there’s George’s BBQ, also in Oklahoma City, another place worth checking out. George’s is known for their brisket, which is melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with flavor. Don’t miss their mac and cheese, a creamy and comforting side dish that perfectly complements the smoky meats.
When indulging in Oklahoma’s barbecue offerings, be sure to sample a variety of meats to experience the full spectrum of flavors. Brisket, with its rich and smoky flavor, is always a good starting point. Ribs, whether spare ribs or baby back ribs, offer a satisfyingly meaty experience. Pulled pork, with its tender and juicy texture, is another popular choice. And don’t forget the sausage, which often comes in a variety of flavors and spice levels.
Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is as Oklahoman as wide-open skies and friendly neighbors. This iconic dish, with its origins believed to lie in the culinary traditions of German immigrants in Texas and Oklahoma, has become a staple on restaurant menus across the state. It’s a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.
At its heart, chicken fried steak is a tenderized cut of beef – typically round steak – that’s been dredged in seasoned flour and then pan-fried or deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The key to a great chicken fried steak lies in the tenderizing process, which breaks down the tough fibers of the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. But what truly elevates chicken fried steak to legendary status is the creamy, peppery gravy that smothers it. This gravy, typically made with milk or cream, seasoned with black pepper and other spices, adds a rich and comforting element that ties the whole dish together.
Oklahoma’s love affair with chicken fried steak is undeniable. It’s comfort food at its finest, a dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and Sunday suppers. You’ll find it served in diners, cafes, and even upscale restaurants, each with its own unique twist. Some establishments offer variations with different types of gravy, such as jalapeno gravy for those who like a bit of heat, or mushroom gravy for a more savory experience.
Where to Find Great Chicken Fried Steak
For a truly authentic experience, head to Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Oklahoma City. This historic restaurant has been serving up classic Oklahoma fare since it opened its doors, and their chicken fried steak is a true masterpiece. The steak is perfectly tenderized, the breading is crispy and golden, and the gravy is rich and flavorful. They have been serving chicken fried steak for over a century.
Another great option is Cheever’s Cafe, also in Oklahoma City. Cheever’s takes a more upscale approach to chicken fried steak, using a higher-quality cut of beef and serving it with a more refined gravy. However, their modern and delicious take has made it a favorite.
Onion Burgers
The Oklahoma onion burger is a testament to culinary ingenuity born out of necessity. During the Great Depression, when meat was scarce and expensive, resourceful cooks in Oklahoma devised a clever way to stretch their ingredients: they added thinly sliced onions to the burger patties. As the burgers cooked, the onions caramelized, infusing the meat with their sweet and savory flavor.
What sets the Oklahoma onion burger apart is this very process. Thinly sliced onions are smashed into the burger patty as it cooks on a flat-top grill. The onions caramelize, becoming sweet and almost translucent, and their flavor permeates the meat, creating a uniquely delicious burger. The resulting burger is juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly addictive.
Must-Try Onion Burger Locations
For a taste of onion burger history, visit Sid’s Diner in El Reno. Sid’s has been serving up onion burgers since the early twentieth century, and their burgers are still cooked the same way they were back then: on a well-seasoned flat-top grill, with thinly sliced onions smashed into the patty. Sid’s is a step back in time.
Another popular spot is Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler with several locations. Johnnie’s offers a slightly more modern take on the onion burger, but they still use the same basic technique of smashing onions into the patty. Johnnie’s is a classic diner.
Native American Influences
Oklahoma has a rich Native American heritage, and this heritage is reflected in its food. Oklahoma is home to many Native American tribes, and their culinary traditions have had a significant impact on the state’s food scene. Traditional ingredients like corn, beans, squash, and wild game are still used in many Native American dishes.
Grape dumplings, a sweet and savory dish made with wild grapes and flour dumplings, are a popular Native American treat. Fry bread, a simple yet satisfying flatbread that’s fried until golden brown, is another iconic dish. Pashofa, a hearty soup made with hominy, pork, and beans, is a traditional comfort food.
Where to Experience Native American Cuisine
To experience Native American cuisine in Oklahoma, visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur. The center offers a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase Chickasaw history and culture, and their restaurant serves traditional Chickasaw dishes.
Fried Okra
Another well-loved food is fried okra. Okra, a vegetable with Southern origins, is beloved in Oklahoma. The perfect side dish, it has a crispy outside, and a slightly soft inside. This makes it the perfect addition to any meal.
Where to Find Fried Okra
To experience quality fried okra in Oklahoma, check out Kendall’s Restaurant in Noble. They are known for their delicious fried okra, as well as their other sides and entrees.
Other Notable Oklahoma Foods and Drinks
While the dishes above take center stage, Oklahoma offers a few other culinary delights. Pickled okra, with its tangy and slightly spicy flavor, is a popular condiment. Fried pies, filled with fruit or cream, are a sweet treat that can be found at many bakeries and roadside stands. Oklahoma’s pecan production contributes to the popularity of pecan pie, a classic dessert. And finally, Oklahoma’s growing craft beer and wine scene is worth exploring, with many local breweries and wineries producing high-quality beverages.
Conclusion
Oklahoma’s culinary landscape is a delightful surprise, a vibrant blend of flavors and traditions that reflects the state’s rich history and diverse culture. From the smoky barbecue that fills the air to the comforting chicken fried steak and the uniquely delicious onion burger, Oklahoma’s famous food offers a true taste of the Sooner State.
So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure in Oklahoma. Explore the local restaurants, try the iconic dishes, and discover the hidden gems that this state has to offer. You’ll be surprised by the diversity of flavors, the warmth of the hospitality, and the unforgettable experiences that await. And that’s a true Oklahoma guarantee.
