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| Alaskan salmon is a menu staple of the Great Land. |
Alaska is a state known for many things. Its rugged, isolated beauty attracts naturalists worldwide. Its Iditarod race fascinates as it earns its nickname, the “Last Great Race on Earth.” Its territory is rich in resources from lumber and oil to gold. It’s the land of the midnight sun. And its food…well Alaska’s food is an entire story in itself.
As any great foodie, epicurean, gourmand or connoisseur of all things delicious knows, Alaskan food is surely something to write home about. Here are a few of Alaska’s top foodie picks.
–By Sea
The catch of the day can vary significantly in the great state of Alaska. From halibut tacos to grilled oysters, fresh seafood is always on the menu in this spacious state. Alaskan king crab and Alaskan salmon are two top seafood picks not to be missed. These can be found at almost any restaurant as a main dish, or thrown into flavorful seafood chowder. Scallops and shrimp are also found in abundance around the state. Most Alaskan restaurants offer these as an appetizer or an accompaniment to a seafood salad. Crab legs are another Alaskan favorite. The best part for a foodie-minded individual is the fact that most seafood dishes are quite affordable due to the localized fishing throughout the area. These great deals bring new meaning to having your (seafood) cake and eating it, too.
–By Land
Besides fresh seafood, meat is another centerpiece of an Alaskan’s diet. Beef brisket is a slow-cooked meat that can be found in various dishes ranging from brisket sandwiches and stews to barbeque. Venison and caribou dishes are also extremely popular. Caribou jerky is a staple item at many convenience stores and gift shops. And buffalo (or bison) burgers are a homemade specialty at many food joints in the state.
–By Fire
No Alaskan meal would be complete without its dessert namesake—baked Alaska. If we are what we eat, plan on being a delectable combination of ice cream and sponge cake. This treat is often splashed with rum, then flambéed when served, creating quite a presentation.
So what are you waiting for? Visit the great state of Alaska for an abundance of culinary delights…and be sure to bite off more than you can chew.