Italian-American
Development: Italian immigrants adapted traditional recipes to American ingredients and tastes, creating a distinct cuisine.
Distinctive Dishes:
- Pasta: Spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine Alfredo, baked ziti
- Pizza: New York-style thin crust, Chicago deep-dish, Sicilian square
- Sandwiches: Italian-American hoagies, chicken parmigiana
- Innovations: Larger portions, increased meat content, sweeter sauces
Chinese-American
Development: Cantonese immigrants created adapted dishes for American palates, often using local ingredients.
Distinctive Dishes:
- Classics: General Tso’s chicken, sweet and sour pork, egg rolls, fortune cookies
- Regional Adaptations: American fried rice, lo mein, beef and broccoli
- Modern Evolution: P.F. Chang’s-style upscale presentations, fusion applications
Jewish-American Delicatessen
Development: Eastern European Jewish immigrants created a distinctive deli culture, particularly in New York.
Distinctive Elements:
- Cured Meats: Pastrami, corned beef, lox
- Breads: Bagels, rye bread, challah
- Specialties: Matzo ball soup, knishes, rugelach, cheesecake
- Sandwich Culture: Pastrami on rye, Reuben, bagel with lox and cream cheese
