Oklahoma, the Sooner State, often conjures images of vast prairies, cowboys, and a rich Native American heritage. But beyond its iconic landscapes and history, Oklahoma boasts a vibrant and unique food scene that reflects its diverse cultural influences. From hearty comfort food to innovative culinary creations, the state offers a delicious journey for every palate. Let’s explore the dishes and ingredients that have put Oklahoma on the culinary map.
Oklahoma’s Barbecue: A Smoky Legacy
Barbecue is practically a religion in Oklahoma, and for good reason. The state’s barbecue traditions are deeply rooted in the cattle ranching history and have been shaped by regional preferences, resulting in a distinct Oklahoma-style barbecue.
The Heart of Oklahoma Barbecue: Meats and Methods
What sets Oklahoma barbecue apart? It’s a combination of the types of meat, the cooking methods, and the regional sauces and rubs used. Brisket is king, often slow-smoked for hours over hickory or pecan wood, resulting in a tender, flavorful masterpiece. Pork ribs are another staple, offering a sweet and smoky counterpoint to the richness of the brisket. Chicken and sausage are also popular choices, often showcasing the versatility of Oklahoma barbecue.
The smoking process itself is crucial. Oklahoma pitmasters are masters of low and slow cooking, carefully monitoring the temperature and smoke to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and smoky flavor. Many use traditional offset smokers, where the firebox is separate from the cooking chamber, allowing for better temperature control and smoke circulation.
Sauces and Rubs: Regional Variations
Oklahoma barbecue sauces vary from region to region, reflecting local tastes and influences. In some areas, you’ll find a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, while others prefer a vinegar-based sauce with a spicy kick. Dry rubs are also common, often consisting of a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and other spices. These rubs create a flavorful crust on the meat as it smokes, adding another layer of complexity to the barbecue experience.
The Mighty Onion Burger: A Culinary Icon
The onion burger is arguably Oklahoma’s most iconic contribution to the American culinary landscape. Born out of necessity during the Great Depression, this humble burger has become a beloved symbol of Oklahoma’s ingenuity and resourcefulness.
The Onion Burger’s Origin Story: A Tale of Innovation
The story of the onion burger begins in El Reno, Oklahoma, in the 1920s. Faced with economic hardship, resourceful burger joints started stretching their meat supply by adding thinly sliced onions to the patties. The onions not only added flavor but also helped to keep the burgers moist and juicy. Over time, the onion burger evolved into a distinct style, characterized by the sheer volume of onions pressed into the beef as it cooks on a flat-top grill.
What Makes an Onion Burger Special: Preparation and Flavor
The key to a great onion burger lies in the preparation. A ball of ground beef is smashed onto a hot, well-seasoned flat-top grill. Then, a mountain of thinly sliced onions is piled on top, and the beef is pressed down into the onions, forcing them to caramelize and meld with the meat. As the burger cooks, the onions release their natural sugars, creating a sweet and savory flavor that complements the beef perfectly. The resulting burger is a symphony of textures and flavors, with the crispy, caramelized onions adding a delightful crunch and sweetness to the juicy, savory beef. It is typically served simply, with mustard and pickles, allowing the flavor of the burger itself to shine.
Where to Find the Best Onion Burgers: El Reno and Beyond
While the onion burger originated in El Reno, you can find them throughout Oklahoma. However, a pilgrimage to El Reno is a must for any serious onion burger aficionado. Several iconic burger joints in El Reno have been serving up these delicious creations for decades, preserving the tradition and flavor that have made the onion burger a culinary legend.
Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern Staple with an Oklahoma Twist
Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food throughout the South, and Oklahoma has embraced it with its own unique twist. This hearty dish consists of a tenderized steak, breaded and fried to golden perfection, and smothered in creamy gravy.
Oklahoma’s Chicken Fried Steak: A Hearty Indulgence
What distinguishes Oklahoma’s chicken fried steak from other versions? It’s often the size, the breading, and the gravy. Oklahoma chicken fried steaks tend to be large and generous, often covering the entire plate. The breading is typically a simple but flavorful blend of flour, salt, pepper, and other spices, creating a crispy and golden crust. And the gravy is usually a creamy, peppery white gravy, made with milk or cream and seasoned with black pepper and other spices.
The Perfect Chicken Fried Steak: Preparation is Key
The key to a great chicken fried steak is proper preparation. The steak must be tenderized properly to ensure it’s tender and easy to cut. The breading should be applied evenly, ensuring a crispy and flavorful crust. And the gravy should be smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning. Served with mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables, chicken fried steak is the ultimate comfort food for Oklahomans and visitors alike.
Native American Influences: A Taste of Tradition
Oklahoma has a rich Native American history, and this influence is evident in the state’s culinary landscape. Native American cuisine in Oklahoma features traditional ingredients and cooking methods, offering a unique and flavorful experience.
Frybread: A Native American Staple
Frybread is perhaps the most well-known Native American dish, and it’s a staple in Oklahoma. This simple but delicious bread is made from flour, water, salt, and baking powder, and fried in oil until golden brown and puffy. Frybread can be served sweet or savory, and it’s often topped with honey, powdered sugar, or chili and beans.
Other Traditional Dishes: Hominy, Grape Dumplings, and More
Beyond frybread, Oklahoma Native American cuisine includes a variety of other traditional dishes. Hominy, made from dried corn kernels treated with an alkali solution, is a common ingredient in soups and stews. Grape dumplings, made from wild grapes and flour, are a sweet and tangy treat. And dishes like succotash, made with corn and beans, reflect the agricultural heritage of Native American tribes.
Oklahoma Pecans: A Nutty Delight
Oklahoma is a major pecan-producing state, and these delicious nuts are featured in a variety of dishes, from pies and candies to savory entrees.
Pecan Pie: A Southern Classic
Pecan pie is a Southern classic, and Oklahoma pecan pie is among the best. Made with Oklahoma pecans, butter, sugar, and eggs, this rich and decadent pie is a staple at Thanksgiving and other holidays.
Other Pecan Treats: Candies, Cookies, and More
In addition to pecan pie, Oklahoma pecans are used in a variety of other treats, including candies, cookies, and brownies. They’re also added to salads, entrees, and other dishes, adding a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Fried Okra: A Southern Side Dish with a Crispy Crunch
Okra thrives in Oklahoma’s hot summers, making fried okra a popular side dish. This simple yet satisfying dish features okra pods coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy and golden brown.
The Art of Frying Okra: Achieving the Perfect Crunch
The key to great fried okra is achieving the perfect crunch. The okra pods should be coated evenly in cornmeal and fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Served with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, fried okra is a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.
Fried Pies: A Sweet and Savory Treat
Fried pies are another Oklahoma favorite, featuring a sweet or savory filling encased in a flaky crust and fried to golden perfection.
Variety of Fillings: From Fruit to Meat
Fried pies come in a variety of fillings, from fruit fillings like apple, cherry, and peach to savory fillings like meat and cheese. They’re a popular snack or dessert, and they’re often sold at roadside stands and farmers markets.
Oklahoma Craft Beer and Wine: A Growing Industry
Oklahoma’s craft beer and wine industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with a variety of breweries and wineries producing award-winning beverages.
Craft Breweries: A Diverse Selection of Beers
Oklahoma’s craft breweries offer a diverse selection of beers, from IPAs and pale ales to stouts and lagers. Many breweries use locally sourced ingredients, adding a unique Oklahoma flavor to their beers.
Wineries: Producing Award-Winning Wines
Oklahoma’s wineries are producing a variety of award-winning wines, from dry reds and whites to sweet dessert wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample their wines and learn about the winemaking process.
The Future of Oklahoma Cuisine
Oklahoma’s food scene is constantly evolving, with chefs and restaurateurs embracing new culinary trends while honoring the state’s rich culinary heritage. The future of Oklahoma cuisine is bright, with a growing emphasis on local ingredients, sustainable practices, and innovative culinary creations. The state’s diverse cultural influences, combined with its entrepreneurial spirit, ensure that Oklahoma will continue to be a culinary destination for years to come.
Oklahoma’s food scene is more than just a collection of dishes; it’s a reflection of the state’s history, culture, and people. From the smoky flavors of Oklahoma barbecue to the crispy crunch of fried okra, the state’s cuisine offers a delicious journey through the heart of America. So, whether you’re a lifelong Oklahoman or a first-time visitor, be sure to explore the state’s culinary canvas and discover the flavors that make Oklahoma famous.
What are some of the key influences that have shaped Oklahoma’s culinary identity?
Oklahoma’s culinary identity is a fascinating blend of Native American traditions, Southern comfort food, and the influence of the state’s cattle ranching heritage. Native American ingredients like corn, beans, and squash have been staples for centuries, while Southern cuisine brought barbecue, fried okra, and pecan pie. The prevalence of cattle ranching contributes significantly to Oklahoma’s love for beef, particularly in the form of steaks and hearty stews.
This unique mix is further enhanced by the diverse cultural groups that have settled in Oklahoma over time, including German, Czech, and Mexican immigrants. Each group has contributed its own distinct flavors and cooking techniques, enriching the culinary landscape and creating a truly diverse and delicious food scene. From savory comfort dishes to bold and spicy flavors, Oklahoma’s culinary canvas reflects its rich and varied history.
What makes Oklahoma barbecue distinctive compared to other regional styles?
Oklahoma barbecue occupies a unique niche within the broader barbecue landscape, often considered a hybrid of Texan and Southern traditions. While Texas barbecue is known for its focus on beef brisket and simple dry rubs, and Southern barbecue often features pork with sweeter sauces, Oklahoma barbecue incorporates elements of both. You’ll find brisket smoked low and slow, alongside pulled pork and ribs, often featuring a combination of dry rubs and tangy, tomato-based sauces.
The wood used for smoking also contributes to Oklahoma’s distinctive barbecue flavor. While hickory and oak are common, some pitmasters utilize pecan wood, lending a slightly sweeter, nuttier flavor to the meat. This blend of influences results in a barbecue style that is both hearty and flavorful, reflecting Oklahoma’s diverse culinary influences.
What are some of the most iconic Oklahoma dishes, and what makes them special?
Chicken fried steak stands as a true Oklahoma icon. Tenderized steak, breaded and fried to golden perfection, then smothered in creamy gravy, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. The satisfying crunch of the breading, combined with the savory steak and rich gravy, makes it a uniquely comforting and indulgent experience.
Another iconic dish is the Indian taco, showcasing Oklahoma’s Native American heritage. Frybread, a fluffy and slightly sweet flatbread, is topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. This combination of textures and flavors, from the soft frybread to the savory toppings, creates a truly unique and satisfying meal that reflects Oklahoma’s cultural diversity.
What are some examples of Native American culinary traditions still prevalent in Oklahoma today?
Native American culinary traditions remain a vital part of Oklahoma’s food scene. Frybread, a staple at powwows and other cultural events, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Native American cuisine. It is a simple yet versatile dish, serving as the base for both savory and sweet creations, and represents the resourcefulness of Native American cooking.
Other traditional ingredients, such as corn, beans, and squash (the “three sisters”), continue to be cultivated and incorporated into contemporary dishes. Hominy, a type of corn that has been treated with an alkali solution, is used in dishes like posole and provides a unique flavor and texture. These ingredients and dishes serve as a connection to the past and a celebration of Native American culinary heritage.
How has Oklahoma’s agricultural industry influenced its cuisine?
Oklahoma’s strong agricultural industry has profoundly shaped its culinary landscape. The state’s cattle ranching heritage is evident in its abundance of high-quality beef, which features prominently in steaks, barbecue, and stews. The availability of fresh, locally sourced beef has allowed chefs to focus on showcasing the natural flavors of the meat.
Furthermore, Oklahoma’s fertile soil supports the cultivation of various crops, including wheat, peanuts, and pecans. These ingredients are used extensively in local dishes. Wheat is used to create artisan breads, while peanuts find their way into candies and snacks. Pecans, a native nut, are the star of Oklahoma’s pecan pies, a quintessential Southern dessert.
What are some emerging culinary trends in Oklahoma that are worth noting?
Oklahoma’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, with a growing emphasis on farm-to-table dining and locally sourced ingredients. Chefs are increasingly partnering with local farmers and ranchers to create menus that highlight the state’s seasonal bounty. This trend reflects a growing appreciation for the quality and sustainability of locally grown food.
Another noteworthy trend is the rise of craft breweries and distilleries across the state. These establishments are not only producing high-quality beers and spirits, but also often incorporate local ingredients into their creations. Many also feature food menus that complement their beverages, further enhancing Oklahoma’s culinary landscape.
Where can visitors experience the best of Oklahoma’s culinary offerings?
To experience the best of Oklahoma’s culinary offerings, exploring local farmers’ markets is a must. They provide a direct connection to local producers and offer a wide variety of fresh ingredients and prepared foods. Visiting Oklahoma City’s Paseo Arts District or Tulsa’s Blue Dome District will provide access to a wide selection of restaurants and eateries.
Beyond the big cities, exploring smaller towns and rural areas can reveal hidden culinary gems. Many small towns have family-owned restaurants that specialize in regional specialties and showcase local ingredients. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path to discover the authentic flavors of Oklahoma.