Missouri, located in the heart of America, is a state known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine. From the rolling hills of the Ozarks to the bustling streets of Kansas City, Missouri’s diverse regions offer a unique blend of flavors that reflect the state’s cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Missouri’s national food, exploring its history, popular dishes, and the ingredients that make it so special.
A Brief History of Missouri’s Cuisine
Missouri’s culinary landscape has been shaped by its strategic location at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The state’s early settlers, including Native American tribes, French and Spanish explorers, and American pioneers, brought with them their own unique cooking traditions. Over time, these influences blended together to create a distinct Missouri flavor profile.
The Impact of German and Italian Immigration
In the mid-19th century, a wave of German and Italian immigrants arrived in Missouri, bringing with them their own culinary customs. German settlers introduced their love of sausages, bread, and beer, while Italian immigrants shared their passion for pasta, pizza, and other Mediterranean dishes. These influences can still be seen in Missouri’s modern cuisine, particularly in the state’s famous toasted ravioli and provel cheese.
Missouri’s National Food: Toasted Ravioli
While Missouri doesn’t have an officially designated national food, toasted ravioli is a dish that’s quintessentially Missourian. This crispy, cheesy, and indulgent treat consists of breaded and fried ravioli filled with a blend of meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
The Origins of Toasted Ravioli
The origins of toasted ravioli are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the Italian-American communities of St. Louis. One story behind the dish is that it was created by accident when a chef at a local Italian restaurant dropped a ravioli into a vat of hot oil. The resulting crispy, golden-brown treat became an instant hit, and toasted ravioli was born.
How to Make Toasted Ravioli
Making toasted ravioli is a relatively simple process that requires just a few ingredients:
- 1 package of fresh ravioli
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- Vegetable oil for frying
To make toasted ravioli, start by dipping each ravioli into the beaten egg and then coating it in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Heat a deep frying pan with about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded ravioli until golden brown, then drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Other Popular Missouri Dishes
While toasted ravioli is a beloved Missouri classic, there are many other delicious dishes to try in the Show-Me State. Some popular options include:
- Kansas City BBQ: Missouri is famous for its slow-smoked barbecue, particularly in Kansas City. Try a classic combo of slow-smoked ribs, burnt ends, and tangy BBQ sauce.
- Provel Cheese: This blend of cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan cheese is a Missouri staple, often used in toasted ravioli and other local dishes.
- Gooey Butter Cake: This rich, sweet cake is a St. Louis specialty, made with a crumbly crust and a gooey, buttery center.
- St. Louis-Style Pizza: This thin-crust pizza is topped with a sweet and tangy sauce, a blend of mozzarella and provel cheese, and a variety of meats and vegetables.
Missouri’s Food Festivals
Missouri is home to a variety of food festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from toasted ravioli to Kansas City BBQ. Some popular events include:
- The Hill’s Italian Fest: This annual festival in St. Louis’s Italian-American neighborhood celebrates the city’s Italian heritage with food, drink, and live music.
- The Kansas City BBQ Festival: This popular festival brings together some of the city’s best BBQ joints for a day of slow-smoked meats and live music.
- The Missouri State Fair: This classic state fair features a variety of Missouri foods, including toasted ravioli, provel cheese, and gooey butter cake.
Conclusion
Missouri’s national food may not be officially designated, but toasted ravioli is a dish that’s quintessentially Missourian. With its crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and rich history, toasted ravioli is a must-try for anyone visiting the Show-Me State. Whether you’re exploring the streets of Kansas City or the hills of the Ozarks, Missouri’s unique blend of flavors and culinary traditions is sure to leave you wanting more.
What is Missouri’s national food?
Missouri’s national food is toasted ravioli, which is a popular dish that originated in the state. Toasted ravioli is a type of ravioli that is typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and then breaded and deep-fried until crispy. It is often served as an appetizer or snack, and is a staple at many Missouri restaurants and events.
While toasted ravioli is a beloved dish throughout Missouri, it’s worth noting that it’s not an officially designated state food. However, it’s widely recognized as a quintessential Missouri culinary tradition, and is often featured at state fairs, festivals, and other celebrations. Whether you’re a native Missourian or just visiting the state, trying toasted ravioli is a must-do culinary experience.
What is the origin of toasted ravioli in Missouri?
The origin of toasted ravioli in Missouri is often attributed to the Italian-American community in St. Louis. According to legend, toasted ravioli was invented by accident in the 1940s by a chef at a St. Louis restaurant called Charlie Gitto’s. The chef, who was trying to create a new appetizer, dropped a ravioli into a vat of hot oil, and the resulting crispy, golden-brown treat became an instant hit with customers.
Over time, toasted ravioli spread throughout Missouri, with different restaurants and chefs putting their own spin on the dish. Today, toasted ravioli is a beloved staple of Missouri cuisine, and can be found on menus throughout the state. Whether you’re in St. Louis, Kansas City, or somewhere in between, toasted ravioli is a must-try culinary experience that’s uniquely Missouri.
What are some popular variations of toasted ravioli in Missouri?
While traditional toasted ravioli is filled with meat or cheese, there are many variations of the dish that can be found throughout Missouri. Some popular variations include toasted ravioli filled with provel cheese, a type of cheese that’s native to the St. Louis area. Other variations include toasted ravioli filled with sausage, pepperoni, or even sweet ingredients like apples or chocolate.
In addition to different fillings, some Missouri restaurants also offer unique twists on the traditional toasted ravioli recipe. For example, some restaurants may serve toasted ravioli with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing, while others may offer a “stuffed” version of the dish that features multiple fillings. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, there’s a type of toasted ravioli out there for everyone.
Where can I try toasted ravioli in Missouri?
There are many great places to try toasted ravioli in Missouri, depending on your location and preferences. In St. Louis, some popular spots for toasted ravioli include Charlie Gitto’s, the restaurant where the dish was allegedly invented, as well as other Italian-American eateries like Mama’s on the Hill and Adriana’s. In Kansas City, some popular spots for toasted ravioli include Lidia’s Kansas City and The Golden Ox.
In addition to these cities, toasted ravioli can also be found on menus throughout Missouri, from Springfield to Columbia to Hannibal. Many Missouri restaurants and bars offer toasted ravioli as an appetizer or snack, so it’s easy to find a place to try this delicious dish. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to ask your server for recommendations on the best toasted ravioli in town.
Can I make toasted ravioli at home?
Yes, you can make toasted ravioli at home, although it may take a little practice to get the recipe just right. To make toasted ravioli, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, including ravioli, breadcrumbs, and oil for frying. You can use store-bought ravioli or make your own from scratch, and fill it with your choice of ingredients.
To make toasted ravioli, simply bread the ravioli with breadcrumbs, heat a pot of oil to the right temperature, and fry the ravioli until it’s crispy and golden brown. Drain the ravioli on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce. Some tips for making toasted ravioli at home include using the right type of breadcrumbs, not overcrowding the pot, and being careful not to burn the ravioli.
Is toasted ravioli a healthy food option?
Toasted ravioli is not typically considered a healthy food option, due to the fact that it’s deep-fried and often filled with rich ingredients like cheese and meat. However, there are some ways to make toasted ravioli a healthier option, such as using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or baking the ravioli instead of frying it.
Additionally, some Missouri restaurants are now offering healthier versions of toasted ravioli, such as using gluten-free breadcrumbs or filling the ravioli with vegetables instead of meat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, be sure to ask your server for recommendations or modifications that can make the dish healthier. With a little creativity, it’s possible to enjoy toasted ravioli while still eating a relatively healthy diet.
Can I find toasted ravioli outside of Missouri?
While toasted ravioli is a quintessential Missouri dish, it’s not unique to the state. In recent years, toasted ravioli has gained popularity throughout the United States, and can now be found on menus in many different cities and states. Some popular spots for toasted ravioli outside of Missouri include Italian restaurants in cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.
However, it’s worth noting that toasted ravioli is still a relatively regional dish, and the best versions of it can still be found in Missouri. If you’re looking to try authentic toasted ravioli, it’s worth making a trip to the Show-Me State to sample the real deal. Whether you’re a foodie or just a fan of toasted ravioli, Missouri is the place to go for this delicious dish.