Foods Ian Hall Has Tried

The story of South Carolina's sweet-hot soda begins with a chance discovery during the Revolutionary War.

This spiced jerky is a beloved snack in South Africa.

These Polish pre-Lent doughnuts have taken on a life (and an eating contest) of their own in the United States.

This sliceable sweet treat is actually dairy-free.

The Virginia treat can “make even your deepest-dyed Yankee start complimenting you with a southern accent.”

Fluffy, crispy, and large enough to share, it's no ordinary pancake.

This slightly sweet dessert is a staple in some Black American Muslim communities.

The hot dog chain’s charming “bi-dent” picks up potatoes with ease.

They helped Victorian men drink tea while protecting their precious facial hair.

These holiday cakes link Christmas to the Norse god of lightning.

They're a Baltimore-specific guilty pleasure.

This Pennsylvania specialty sometimes looks like Pepto-Bismol and smells like Bengay.

Mornings in Amish country once called for pie-cake and coffee.

The cure and cause of a burning tongue.

In the 1920s, confectioners thought the public wanted candy that looked like legumes—and they were right.

This Southeast Asian leaf can wake you up, knock you out, and subdue heroin withdrawal.

An ancient cooking method still produces delicious, beachside feasts.

The world's least practical and most delicious edible straw.

This wintertime serenade for apple trees also involves firing rifles and drinking cider.

A gesture of welcome and respect, Moroccan mint tea gets poured from high above the glass.

The holiday tradition of hiding an ornamental veggie.

Spread this fat-poached meat on a crusty French loaf.

This bird comes with a brew inside.

This style of fried chicken is pressure-cooked while it fries.