NPB Identifies Favorite Pork Dishes in Every State

As pandemic-weary consumers begin to travel and look for new recipes during a summer that is starting to feel more “normal,” National Pork Board (NPB) is encouraging Americans to let their taste buds explore the most popular pork dishes in every state.

NPB 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.

Interesting Pork Trends Emerged from the Study

National Pork Board surveyed 100 pork eaters in every U.S. state about their favorite pork dishes. The results revealed how cultural connections have influenced America’s preferences for this globally popular protein.¹

“We know ribs and chops will always be staples, but we really wanted to go beyond specific cuts of meat to better understand how pork shows up in the favorite traditional dishes across the U.S.,” said Angie Krieger, vice president of domestic marketing at the National Pork Board. “There’s such a strong connection between food, culture and regional identity, and pork clearly has a strong ability to connect us to our heritages, our traditions and each other. United States of Pork offers the opportunity to explore the many flavors and styles of pork, not only in your state, but across America.”

The United States of Pork campaign builds on NPB’s commitment to consumer outreach efforts. The campaign celebrates the authentic flavors of pork. It also creates opportunities to share the U.S. pork industry’s farm-to-fork story with consumers.

Pork has Strong Connection to Regional History and Ethnic Influences

The pork pasties of South Dakota and 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.

Many dishes are influenced by the European traditions brought by early immigrants. (For example, German sausages, pizza, and a variety of Italian sandwiches.) 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 we all may disagree on how to prepare it. But there’s no disagreement that pork is the preferred protein to cook low and slow. 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.

What’s Your State’s Favorite Pork Dish?

All recipes and U.S. of Pork activities will be posted online and on the NPB’s recipe inspiration social media accounts. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Click to Find Your State’s Favorite Pork Dish