7 Iconic Southern Foods In Tennessee

From barbecue and hot chicken to biscuits and banana pudding, the range of delicious Southern foods in Tennessee is mouthwatering. The state has endless tasty thing to eat, but we’ve rounded up the most iconic dishes that you need to try.

Tennessee might be best known for its barbecue, but there’s endless other foods to dig into.

7 Iconic Southern Foods In Tennessee, How do these rankings work?

1. Biscuits

This Southern staple receives extra love Tennessee – whether in the form of butter in its batter or the innovative toppings you can find. Choose savoury such as crispy chicken, rich gravy or thick-cut bacon, with sweet toppings like jam or honey.

2. Barbecue

Tennessee barbecue is droolworthy mix of styles that combine to make it all its own. You can’t deny the allure of a piled-high plate of Memphis ribs, can you? They’re slow-cooked and rubbed with a delectable blend of salt and spices before being cooked to perfection. Or, you can even order ‘em wet and enjoy the tangy taste of a delicious sauce.

3. Catfish

The fresh catch of any day in Tennessee, catfish is battered in boisterous seasonings and flash-fried for a delicious Southern version of fish ’n’ chips. It’s a real staple here, so make sure you try it at least one.

4. Banana Pudding

Known across the nation as Tennessee’s state dessert, this creamy dessert is to-die-for. Want to sample some of the best pudding in the state, all in one place? Check out Centerville’s National Banana Pudding Festival each October.

5. Hot Chicken

This cayenne pepper-encrusted hot chicken has become a Tennessee staple. Pair it with a loaf of white bread and a jar of pickle chips to cool off the spice, and wash it down with a glass of sweet tea.

6. Country Ham

Pair your eggs, potatoes, and biscuits and gravy with a tasty slab of artisan country ham. Dig in at places like Shirley’s Home Cooking in Hampton, Nick & J’s Cafe in Knoxville, Stan’s Country Restaurant in Columbia or Porcellino’s Craft Butcher in Memphis.

7. ‘Meat and Three’

A Meat & Three meal is Southern food at its very best. Choose a delicious meat dish, accompanied by three mouthwatering sides. Don’t forget a sweet tea and slice of pie to round out the meal.