As Fourth of July celebrations approach, a small, unscientific poll of local revelers highlights the nation’s favorite foods for the holiday. The survey indicates that most prefer hamburgers over hot dogs, though all-beef hot dogs remain popular.
Backyard cookouts are a staple of Independence Day festivities. Many participants expressed their culinary preferences, with some selecting traditional toppings. Martha Allen Price, executive director of Extra Table, favors hot dogs dressed Chicago-style, with mustard, relish, onions, a pickle, and celery salt.
Otie Heubach, author of “I Cook Because the State Requires Me to Feed My Children,” says she can enjoy both, though she prefers simple hot dogs with white onions, mayo, mustard, and ketchup. Elizabeth Montambault, of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi, reports she and her husband enjoy hot dogs topped with sauerkraut each year.
Meanwhile, Brooks Eason, a local author, favors cheeseburgers with cheese, mayo, ketchup, sautéed onions, and mushrooms. Bill Ellison, host of Grassroots on Mississippi Public Broadcasting, and Leigh Bailey, co-owner of Salad Days, also prefer burgers dressed to their liking. When it comes to sides, French fries beat chips, with many expressing a love for crispy, salted, or sweet potato varieties.
For dessert, the poll shows a tie between watermelon and pie. Martha Allen Price prefers seedless watermelon year-round, while Otie Heubach favors pie, specifically highlighting the appeal of crusted desserts with ice cream. A popular recipe included in the survey features a mixed berry pie with a flaky crust and decorative toppings, perfect for patriotic celebrations.
As neighborhoods fill with the aroma of grilling meats and baked goods, Americans continue to embrace traditional foods that define their Independence Day celebrations.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
