As pandemic-weary consumers begin to travel and look for new recipes during a summer that's starting to feel more "normal," The National Pork Board is encouraging Americans to let their taste buds explore the most popular pork dishes in every state. The Pork Board, and the 60,000 U.S. pig farmers it represents, has released the results of a new consumer survey showing the top pork dishes in each state. These favorites highlight the unique, diverse and delicious pork flavors loved by people across the country.

Some of the pork facts:

Pork’s strong connection to regional history

• The pork pasties of South Dakota or West Virginia’s pepperoni rolls are directly tied to filling hand-held meals for miners. Pork helped shape the early economies of many U.S. states.

Ethnic influences abound

• Many dishes are influenced by the European traditions brought by early immigrants, as German sausages, pizza, and a variety of Italian sandwiches demonstrate. But the growing influence of Latino and Asian cultures cannot be overlooked, especially as the study dives deeper into the second and third most popular dishes in each state.

Everyone agrees (and disagrees) on barbecue. And pizza.

• The distinct regional preferences in barbecue styles show how while we all may disagree on how to prepare it, there’s no disagreement that pork is preferred protein to go low and slow with. And while Illinois agrees that Chicago-style deep dish pepperoni pizza is the lake-front favorite, there will be an eternal debate on which Windy City establishment crafts the best pie.

Sausage is King

• It’s loved everywhere. From pepperoni, bratwurst, hot dogs, corn dogs, reindeer sausage (yes, it’s made with pork), to biscuits and sausage gravy, the savory, indulgent flavors that pork-based sausages provide are favorites from coast to coast.

Each state's top pork dish is featured on pork.org/porknation, where recipes and inspiration are easily found.

www.provisoneronline.com | AUGUST 2021