Our fellow Americans, time for a reality check: some of the foods we take for granted are actually blowing people away, as uncovered on this Reddit thread. We’re talking about foreigners who are falling head over heels for American classics, leaving them begging for more. Intrigued? These are the 10 American foods that the world can’t get enough of.
10. Banana Pudding
One Redditor claims that banana pudding is a dessert that’s life-changing. Clearly, other foreigners are going bananas for it (pun intended) because of the delightful mix of textures and flavors from the fruit, vanilla pudding, and vanilla wafers. For the ultimate banana pudding experience, it’s a must to try it with Nilla wafers!
9. Mac & Cheese
Mac & cheese is everywhere in the US, so it’s easy for us to not think too much about this quintessential dish. But for non-Americans, a mac & cheese made from scratch with at least three types of cheese and a crispy breadcrumb on top is comfort food perfection.
8. Biscuits and Gravy
Biscuits and gravy may not be visually captivating, but the combination of buttery, salty biscuits and meaty sausage gravy will pull you right in. The homestyle comfort food is just too perfect when you just want to tuck in and enjoy a movie on a rainy day.
7. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie makes a regular appearance on Thanksgiving celebrations, and for good reasons. First, its mouthfeel—the layers will take you from crunchy to luxuriously smooth. With no crust on top and a decent amount of protein and fiber, pecan pie is also a “better-for-you” dessert. However, chocolate pecan pie is on a whole other level.
6. S’mores
Since we’re talking about desserts, there’s nothing more American than s’mores. The combination of graham crackers, milk chocolate, and roasted marshmallows never gets old. As non-American fans have put it, the treat is a sugary perfection! S’mores (a contraction of the phrase “some more”) is truly living up to its name beyond the US.
5. Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings scream finger food fun, making it a staple at tailgate parties and other social gatherings. Outside the US, it’s been hailed as modern-day ambrosia by foreigners, and it’s not hard to see why. The balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors has an exciting kick without it being overpowering. The contrasting textures of tender meat and crispy skin is also universally loved!
4. Cornbread
The humble cornbread is a Southern classic that doesn’t need much to stand out. Even so, its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture is an irresistible combo that has people coming back for more. And don’t get us started on the many ways to enjoy cornbread. It’s not just a “sidekick” to so many dishes; for one, you can have it warm with some butter and honey drizzle for breakfast. Yum!
3. Lobster Roll
Dubbed as the “perfect seafood sandwich” by Redditors, lobster roll has a decadence drawn from the combination of tender lobster meat, buttery roll, and a simple dressing. It brings together sweet and savory elements in a way that’s universally pleasing. It’s considered a gourmet street food, allowing non-Americans to enjoy something fancy without the need for fine dining.
2. Reuben Sandwich
Those aren’t familiar with American-style deli sandwiches would be surprised with all the flavors packed in a Reuben sandwich. There’s tangy, creamy, and savory, all in one bite. It’s also indulgent and incredibly filling, hitting the right spots when it comes to comfort food. Who would have thought simple ingredients like corned beef, bread, sauerkraut, cheese, and Russian dressing would create such a global hit?
1. Smoked Brisket
Non-Americans who are also BBQ lovers can’t get enough of the smoked brisket. The tenderness and juiciness are top tier, but some say that you don’t even need a BBQ sauce if the brisket is seasoned well. Sometimes, the smoke and wood selection also matters. But if we’re talking about the low-and-slow cooking method, Texas restaurants know the art too well.