Volunteer Vittles: 8 Tastes That Define Tennessee

Volunteer Vittles: 8 Tastes That Define Tennessee

Tennessee’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting the state’s rich cultural heritage and regional diversity. From Memphis to Nashville and the Appalachian Mountains, the Volunteer State offers a mouthwatering array of iconic dishes that have gained national recognition. Tennessee is famous for its hot chicken, Memphis-style barbecue, and whiskey, which form the cornerstone of its gastronomic reputation.

The state’s cuisine is deeply rooted in Southern traditions, with a hearty emphasis on comfort foods that warm both body and soul. Tennessee’s signature dishes often feature bold flavors, slow-cooked meats, and farm-fresh ingredients. This culinary identity has been shaped by various influences, including African American, Native American, and European culinary traditions.

Visitors to Tennessee can embark on a flavorful journey, sampling everything from fiery hot chicken in Nashville to succulent dry-rubbed ribs in Memphis. The state’s food scene also boasts sweet treats like banana pudding and Moon Pies, as well as savory staples such as country ham and biscuits with gravy. Each region of Tennessee offers its own unique twist on Southern cuisine, making the state a true food lover’s paradise.

Tennessee’s Signature Dishes

A table filled with iconic Tennessee dishes: hot chicken, barbecue ribs, cornbread, and pecan pie

Tennessee’s culinary landscape boasts a rich array of iconic foods that reflect its Southern heritage and regional influences. From fiery hot chicken to smoky barbecue, the state’s signature dishes offer a tantalizing journey through traditional flavors and cooking techniques.

Hot Chicken

Nashville’s hot chicken has gained national recognition for its fiery kick and crispy texture. This dish features fried chicken coated in a spicy paste made with cayenne pepper and other seasonings. The heat level ranges from mild to extremely hot, catering to different palates.

Hot chicken is typically served on white bread with pickle chips. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, credited with creating the dish, remains a popular spot. Other renowned establishments include Hattie B’s and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish.

The popularity of hot chicken has spread beyond Nashville, with variations appearing on menus across the country.

Tennessee Barbecue

Tennessee barbecue, particularly Memphis-style, is known for its dry rub and emphasis on pork. Memphis dry rub ribs are a standout, featuring a flavorful blend of spices applied before smoking. Unlike other regional styles, sauce is often served on the side.

Pulled pork is another Tennessee barbecue staple. The meat is slow-smoked for hours, resulting in tender, flavorful pork that’s typically served on a bun or plate.

Notable barbecue joints include Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous in Memphis and Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville.

Country Ham and Red Eye Gravy

Country ham, a salt-cured and often smoked pork product, is a Tennessee breakfast favorite. It’s typically pan-fried and served with red eye gravy, a simple sauce made from ham drippings and coffee.

The salty, intense flavor of country ham pairs well with biscuits or grits. Some popular varieties include Benton’s Country Ham from Madisonville and Clifty Farm Country Ham from Paris.

Red eye gravy gets its name from the reddish circles of fat that form on its surface, resembling bloodshot eyes.

Meat and Three

The “meat and three” concept is a quintessential Tennessee dining experience. Diners choose one meat and three side dishes from a selection of Southern classics. Common meat options include:

  • Fried chicken
  • Meatloaf
  • Country-fried steak
  • Pulled pork

Side dishes often feature:

  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Green beans
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Collard greens

Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville is a renowned meat and three establishment. This dining style reflects Tennessee’s love for hearty, comforting meals.

Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and gravy is a beloved breakfast dish throughout Tennessee. Flaky, buttery biscuits are smothered in creamy sausage gravy, creating a rich and satisfying meal.

The key to great biscuits lies in using cold butter and handling the dough minimally. Some establishments, like Loveless Cafe near Nashville, have gained fame for their biscuit recipes.

Variations may include adding fried chicken or country ham to the dish. Biscuits and gravy exemplify Tennessee’s commitment to comforting Southern breakfast fare.

Sides and Desserts

Tennessee’s culinary tradition extends to its side dishes and desserts. Fried green tomatoes, a Southern classic, are popular appetizers or sides. Sliced unripe tomatoes are coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy.

Macaroni and cheese is a staple side dish, often baked to achieve a crispy top. Banana pudding, layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, is a beloved dessert.

Stack cake, a regional specialty, consists of thin layers of cake filled with spiced apple preserves. This dessert has roots in Appalachian cuisine.

Fried pickles, introduced in the 1960s, have become a popular appetizer. Dill pickle slices are battered and fried, served with ranch dressing for dipping.

Regional Variations and Specialties

A table set with iconic Tennessee dishes: BBQ ribs, hot chicken, cornbread, and sweet tea, surrounded by a backdrop of rolling hills and a bluegrass band playing in the background

Tennessee’s culinary landscape boasts distinct regional specialties that reflect the state’s diverse cultural influences and local ingredients. From smoky barbecue to fiery chicken, each area offers unique flavors and cooking techniques.

Memphis Barbecue

Memphis-style barbecue is renowned for its dry rub and slow-cooking method. Pork ribs and pulled pork are the stars of this regional cuisine. Dry rub, a flavorful blend of spices, is generously applied to the meat before smoking.

Memphis barbecue joints often serve ribs “dry” with the rub alone or “wet” with a tangy sauce. The sauce is typically tomato-based and slightly sweet. Pulled pork sandwiches are another local favorite, often topped with coleslaw.

Many restaurants smoke their meats for hours over hickory wood, creating a distinctive flavor profile. Sweet potato fries frequently accompany barbecue dishes as a beloved side.

Nashville Hot Chicken

Nashville hot chicken has gained national recognition for its fiery flavor and crispy texture. This spicy dish features fried chicken coated in a cayenne-based paste.

The heat level varies from mild to extremely hot, catering to different palates. Traditional preparation involves marinating chicken in buttermilk, frying it, and then coating it with the signature spice blend.

Hot chicken is typically served on white bread with pickle chips. Many Nashville establishments offer their unique take on this local specialty, ranging from classic recipes to innovative variations.

East Tennessee Delicacies

East Tennessee cuisine reflects Appalachian influences and farm-to-table traditions. Stack cakes, a multilayered dessert with dried apple filling, are a regional favorite.

Soup beans, made with pinto beans and ham hocks, are a comforting staple. They’re often served with cornbread and chow-chow relish. Country ham, dry-cured and often smoked, is another East Tennessee specialty.

Mountain trout, caught in local streams, is popular in this region. It’s often prepared simply – pan-fried or grilled with herbs. Ramps, wild leeks native to the Appalachian Mountains, feature in seasonal dishes.

Food Festivals and Events

A bustling food festival in Tennessee featuring iconic dishes like hot chicken, barbecue, and Nashville-style hot dogs. Colorful food stalls line the streets, with the aroma of smoked meats and spicy sauces filling the air

Tennessee hosts numerous food festivals celebrating its culinary heritage. These events showcase local specialties and bring communities together through shared gastronomic experiences.

National Cornbread Festival

The National Cornbread Festival takes place annually in South Pittsburg, Tennessee. This event honors the state’s love for cornbread and its significance in Southern cuisine.

Visitors can sample various cornbread recipes and watch cooking demonstrations. The festival features a cornbread cook-off where contestants compete for prizes and recognition.

Live music, arts and crafts vendors, and carnival rides add to the festive atmosphere. The event typically draws over 25,000 attendees from across the country.

Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue

Lynchburg, Tennessee hosts the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue each October. This prestigious competition attracts top barbecue teams from around the world.

Participants compete in categories including pork ribs, pork shoulder, beef brisket, and chicken. Judges evaluate entries based on appearance, tenderness, and flavor.

The event offers visitors the chance to taste world-class barbecue and enjoy live entertainment. Cooking demonstrations and whiskey tastings highlight local culinary traditions.

This festival celebrates Tennessee’s renowned barbecue culture and its connection to the famous Jack Daniel’s distillery.

Influences on Tennessee Cuisine

A table set with classic Tennessee dishes: hot chicken, barbecue ribs, biscuits, and pecan pie. A bottle of Jack Daniel's sits nearby

Tennessee’s culinary landscape reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences. The state’s food traditions draw heavily from Southern comfort cooking and African American soul food.

Influence of Southern Comfort Food

Southern comfort food forms the backbone of Tennessee cuisine. Biscuits and gravy, a quintessential Southern dish, is a breakfast staple across the state. Flaky, buttery biscuits are smothered in creamy sausage gravy, offering a hearty start to the day.

Cornbread is another Southern staple deeply ingrained in Tennessee’s food culture. This golden bread, often baked in cast-iron skillets, accompanies many meals. It’s versatile, served alongside barbecue, used to soak up pot likker from greens, or crumbled into milk as a simple dessert.

Tennessee’s take on fried chicken is legendary, with Nashville hot chicken gaining national recognition. This fiery dish exemplifies how Southern comfort food evolves while maintaining its roots.

Influence of Soul Food

Soul food, with its origins in African American communities, has significantly shaped Tennessee’s culinary identity. This cuisine emphasizes bold flavors and makes use of ingredients once considered less desirable.

Greens, such as collards and turnip greens, are a soul food staple in Tennessee. They’re often slow-cooked with smoked pork for added flavor. Black-eyed peas, another soul food essential, are popular in Tennessee, especially on New Year’s Day for good luck.

Sweet potato pie, a soul food dessert, is a common alternative to pumpkin pie in Tennessee. Its rich, creamy filling showcases the versatility of this humble root vegetable.

Barbecue in Tennessee, particularly in Memphis, reflects soul food influences with its emphasis on pork and tangy, tomato-based sauces.

Famous Food Venues in Tennessee

Tennessee boasts several iconic eateries that have become destinations for food lovers. These establishments serve up the state’s renowned dishes with a side of Southern hospitality.

Loveless Cafe

Loveless Cafe, located just outside Nashville, has been a local institution since 1951. Famous for its flaky biscuits and country ham, this rustic restaurant draws visitors from far and wide. The cafe’s secret biscuit recipe remains unchanged for over 60 years.

Guests can enjoy classic Southern breakfasts all day long, featuring items like country fried steak and red-eye gravy. For lunch and dinner, the menu offers hearty plates of fried chicken, catfish, and meatloaf. The on-site smokehouse produces delectable pulled pork and ribs.

Loveless Cafe’s charming atmosphere includes a quaint country store and picturesque grounds. The restaurant has hosted numerous celebrities and politicians over the years, cementing its status as a must-visit Tennessee food destination.

Arnold’s Country Kitchen

Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville exemplifies the meat-and-three tradition. This cafeteria-style eatery serves a rotating menu of Southern comfort foods. Diners choose one meat and three side dishes from daily offerings.

Standout dishes include:

  • Roast beef with gravy
  • Fried chicken
  • Turnip greens
  • Mac and cheese
  • Cornbread

The no-frills atmosphere and consistently delicious food have earned Arnold’s numerous accolades. It received a James Beard America’s Classics Award in 2009. Despite its popularity, Arnold’s maintains affordable prices and a welcoming vibe.

Central BBQ

Central BBQ stands out among Memphis’s many barbecue joints. Known for its slow-smoked meats and unique dry rub, Central BBQ has gained a loyal following since opening in 2002. The restaurant now operates multiple locations in Memphis.

Menu highlights include:

  • Dry-rubbed ribs
  • Pulled pork
  • BBQ nachos
  • Smoked wings

Central BBQ’s pork is smoked for 14 hours, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The signature dry rub contains a secret blend of spices. Diners can choose from four house-made sauces to complement their meal.

The casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make Central BBQ a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It consistently ranks among the top barbecue restaurants in Memphis.

Rendezvous

Rendezvous, a Memphis institution since 1948, is famous for its dry-rub ribs. Located in a basement alley, this unique restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. The distinct aroma of barbecue greets guests as they descend the stairs.

The menu focuses on charcoal-broiled ribs seasoned with a signature spice blend. Other popular items include:

  • BBQ nachos
  • Pulled pork
  • Beef brisket
  • Smoked sausage

Rendezvous’s walls are adorned with memorabilia and photos of famous visitors. The lively atmosphere and efficient service contribute to its enduring popularity. The restaurant ships its ribs and seasoning nationwide, allowing fans to enjoy a taste of Memphis at home.

Beverages Complementing Tennessee Foods

A table set with fried chicken, barbecue ribs, cornbread, and sweet tea

Tennessee’s cuisine finds perfect companions in its famous spirits. These local beverages enhance the flavors of traditional dishes and offer unique tasting experiences.

Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee Whiskey stands as a symbol of the state’s distilling heritage. This smooth spirit undergoes the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering through sugar maple charcoal before aging. Jack Daniel’s, the most renowned brand, pairs well with barbecue and grilled meats.

The whiskey’s caramel and vanilla notes complement the smoky flavors of Tennessee’s famous hot chicken. Its versatility extends to cocktails, enhancing mixed drinks that accompany local specialties.

Moonshine

Moonshine, once illicitly produced in hidden stills, now enjoys legal status in Tennessee. This clear, unaged corn whiskey packs a potent punch and offers a taste of Appalachian tradition.

Flavored varieties like apple pie and blackberry moonshine provide sweet counterpoints to savory dishes. Some restaurants incorporate moonshine into sauces and glazes for meats. Its raw, bold character pairs surprisingly well with country ham and other hearty fare.

Memorable Food Experiences

A table filled with iconic Tennessee dishes: hot chicken, BBQ ribs, and banana pudding

Tennessee offers unique culinary adventures that blend history, tradition, and flavor. Visitors can savor authentic Southern cuisine in iconic establishments and discover hidden gems run by local families.

Dining in Historic Places

The Loveless Cafe stands as a testament to Tennessee’s rich culinary heritage. Located in Nashville, this landmark restaurant has been serving Southern comfort food since 1951. Guests can enjoy their famous scratch-made biscuits and country ham in a charming, rustic setting.

In Memphis, diners can step back in time at the Arcade Restaurant, Elvis Presley’s favorite diner. Established in 1919, it’s the city’s oldest cafe and offers classic American fare with a Southern twist.

Chattanooga’s Bluff View Art District houses several eateries in beautifully restored 19th-century buildings. Visitors can indulge in artisanal bread, coffee, and locally-sourced dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Tennessee River.

Exploring Family-owned Eateries

Family-run restaurants are the heart of Tennessee cuisine. In Nashville, Arnold’s Country Kitchen has been serving meat-and-three meals for generations. This James Beard Award-winning establishment offers daily rotating menus featuring traditional Southern dishes.

Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, with locations across the state, began as a small grocery store in the 1950s. Today, it’s known for its Southern-style comfort food and live music performances.

In Knoxville, Bistro at the Bijou occupies a historic building and serves farm-to-table Southern cuisine. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere and locally-sourced ingredients provide a genuine taste of East Tennessee.