Get ready to drool, because these 10 crave-worthy American foods have the world lining up for a taste. These foods are not just popular, they have become global cravings. The world has spoken and it said “yum,” or at least non-Americans typed it on this Reddit thread. If you’re curious what the hype is all about, let’s dive straight into the deliciousness!
10. Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries
What’s better than regular fries? Waffle fries! To be more specific, there’s so much love for Chick-fil-A’s version. This fast food chain is among the few restaurants that offer a waffle-cut fry, providing a larger surface area for the seasoning to cling to. It’s worth noting, though, that Chick-fil-A recently tweaked the recipe for waffle fries, a bold move for their most popular item.
9. Jambalaya
Jambalaya qualifies as an American classic, and is widely known in Louisiana. Surprisingly, those who live in the UK and Ireland also couldn’t get enough of this hearty dish, as discussed in BuzzFeed article. And who could blame them? Loads of flavors are packed in the mix of chicken, sausage, shrimp, veggies, and rice. Much of its aroma comes from the trinity of chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper.
8. Chicago Pizza
Pizzas in many parts of the world are served with either puffy or thin crust. But in the US, we have deep dish pizza that offers more room for extra toppings and sauce. There’s no debate needed here; Chicago style pizza is a deep dish feast that’s cheesier and saucier than New York style pizza. I mean, who could say no to a pizza that looks more like a casserole than a slice?
7. Cornbread
Cornbread’s moist, crumbly texture and slightly sweet flavor have a strong global appeal. As one fan puts its, Americans got cornbread “down to a T.” Also part of cornbread’s exceptional nature is the many ways it can be eaten. You can have it as a dessert, side dish, or a snack. Non-Americans love the idea of having it as a light meal or as a sweet companion for their main course.
6. Pecan Pie
Crunchy pecans, when combined with smooth custard filling in a flaky crust, offers a luxurious mouthfeel. And the taste? Heaven. I don’t know about you but pecans are queens of nuts. Their crunchiness is a great contrast to the their rich, buttery, and nutty flavor. Pecan pie is a family-favorite during Thanksgiving and for good reason!
5. IHOP Pancakes
Every year, IHOP sells around 700 million pancakes, proving just how famous their pancakes are. The truth is, IHOP is only available in over 70 locations outside the US. Also part of IHOP’s appeal is their Pancake of the Month program, featuring a new pancake flavor every month. And that pancake combo meal? It’s always a good deal!
4. Cinnamon Toast Crunch
Here’s a shocker: Cinnamon Toast Crunch makes the cut because many non-Americans declared that this is the best cereal they’ve had in their entire life! I must say that the mix of cinnamon and sugar is irresistible. The crunch also sets the cereal apart from others. Basically, it’s designed to stay crunchy in milk. But here’s a little trick we’ll whisper: try it with vanilla ice cream!
3. Everything Bagel
Slowly, bite after bite, you’ll realize you can’t get enough of everything bagel. The bagel itself is plain but the magic happens when it gets baked with a spice mix that includes garlic, onion, sesame seeds, salt, and poppy seeds. The everything bagel seasoning is so good it’s been used to enhance the flavor of other foods like salads, salmon, and casseroles.
2. Everything Taco Bell
Taco Bell has a global reach outside the US, but not enough to reach fans from countries like New Zealand. Taco Bell menu items are tasty, and the sauces are additionally tasty. The price? Highly affordable. Non-Americans who are looking for healthier places to eat would actually enjoy being at Taco Bell. The order customization is on another level and you can eat vegan anytime.
1. Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream
There’s always room for ice cream, right? For non-Americans, the answer is yes, especially if we’re talking about Dippin’ Dots. The brand has captured the hearts of many because of those little beads of ice cream that create an unforgettable dessert experience. One fan said that it’s such a treat when you’re at the theme park. Once you try Dippin’ Dots, prepare to miss the experience every day! A Food & Wine article mentions a non-American who does.