What Food New Jersey Is Known For
When I first moved to New Jersey, I was eager to delve into the local food scene. I quickly discovered that New Jersey has a treasure trove of iconic dishes that reflect its rich history and diverse culture. Each bite was like a new adventure, throwing me into a world of flavors and traditions I had never tasted before. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a culinary journey through the foods that make New Jersey a unique destination for food lovers.
One of the most talked-about foods in New Jersey is the pork roll, also known as “Taylor ham.” This breakfast staple has sparked a heated debate among locals about its proper name. In fact, a survey showed that 56% of New Jersey residents call it pork roll, while 44% prefer the name Taylor ham. Regardless of what you call it, you can find this processed meat on almost every breakfast sandwich in the state. The savory goodness of pork roll paired with egg and cheese on a roll has become a rite of passage for anyone living or visiting New Jersey.
Next up, we have the New Jersey-style pizza. Unlike the straight-up East Coast slices found in New York, New Jersey pizza boasts a unique flair. The cheese is usually spread out under the sauce, creating a delightful balance that pizza enthusiasts may find intriguing. In fact, a 2021 survey conducted by a local food magazine ranked New Jersey’s pizza as the 2nd most beloved in the country, just behind New York. One popular spot that serves excellent New Jersey-style pizza is Marcello's Pizza in Montclair. Any true local can tell you that finding the best pizza is a serious quest!
While we’re talking about the iconic pizza, have you ever heard of the slice of “white pizza”? This style is different from your typical tomato sauce pizza. Instead, it features oil, garlic, and cheese, often ricotta and mozzarella, giving it a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. This dish has garnered a following over the years, to the point where some say they crave it when they’re away from home. It seems to have almost a cult following!
Now, let’s venture into the world of salt water taffy. It’s a staple in coastal towns like seaside heights, where it was invented in the late 1800s. Jersey's beaches are lined with shops selling this chewy candy, often in a dizzying spectrum of colors and flavors. Did you know that it’s believed the name came about when a storm flooded a taffy shop? The owner remarked that the taffy was ruined by saltwater—hence the name! You can still find shops today that carry saltwater taffy, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the New Jersey shore.
Another crowd-pleaser is the state's classic cheesesteak. While it’s often linked to Philadelphia, New Jersey has its own take on this beloved sandwich. The New Jersey version favors a higher cheese-to-steak ratio and often includes grilled onions, peppers, or mushrooms. In fact, many diners in New Jersey pride themselves on preparing the best cheesesteak in town, making it a hotly contested local competition. You might even say choosing the right spot for a cheesesteak can be the ultimate test of your New Jersey allegiance!
One dish that may surprise you is the Italian hot dog. This food originated in Newark and features a deep-fried hot dog served in a bun, along with fried peppers, potatoes, and onions. The combination creates a savory experience that has become beloved amongst locals. The foundations of the Italian hot dog can be traced back to New Jersey's immigrant communities, making it a quintessential representative of the state’s culinary landscape.
In addition to these famous foods, New Jersey is also known for its great bagels. Many claim that the water in New Jersey creates the perfect bagel texture and flavor. If you happen to be in the mood for something sweet, don’t forget to try a< strong>dge of New Jersey’s famous cranberry bogs. Yes, cranberries! New Jersey is one of the top cranberry-producing states in the U.S., and these tart treats find their way into many local dishes, especially during the holidays.
With so many iconic foods to explore, it’s no wonder New Jersey holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. If your mouth is watering just thinking about these dishes, it’s time to visit New Jersey and experience this gastronomic adventure for yourself. Whether you prefer pork roll or a slice of white pizza, each culinary sensation you try will tell a story about this diverse state.
When it comes down to it, New Jersey is a hidden gem in the food world, bursting with flavors and surprises waiting for you to discover them!
