The state of Wyoming is renowned nationwide for its wide open places and wildlife reserves, such as Yellowstone National Park. But it also has a culinary culture all its own. We’ve taken a look at four of the foods that taste best in Wyoming.
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Chicken-Fried Steak
Grab your fork and get ready to tuck into a big plate of chicken-fried steak, one of Wyoming’s favorite foods. This is a steak that’s been tenderized and battered in an egg-and-flour mixture before being fried to crispy, golden perfection. There’s not actually any chicken in the dish ― it gets its name from the fact that chicken recipes are often prepared in the same manner. To get the most out of your chicken-fried steak, make sure it comes topped with a rich, creamy gravy. You can order this Wyoming classic in most cities, including Laramie, Cheyenne, Gillette, and Jackson.
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Rocky Mountain Oysters
If you’re surprised to see something that sounds like seafood on our list, think again. As a landlocked state, Wyoming’s oysters are a little different ― they’re actually deep-fried testicles. They usually come from a bull, but can also come from bison, pigs, or sheep.
Before you get grossed out, remember this dish was created in the Rocky Mountain region by ranchers who couldn’t afford to waste any part of the animals they were eating. And they also taste great, with a flavor that’s more akin to venison or even calamari than it is to regular beef. You’ll find this novelty item on plenty of Wyoming restaurant menus.
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Bison
You’ll see lots of wild bison in the state of Wyoming, but you might also find some on your dinner plate. It represents a great alternative to the traditional beef burger as it’s leaner and has fewer calories. The flavor is rich and a little bit sweet, and the meat can be easily grilled or cooked in a cast-iron skillet.
Wyoming restaurants often serve bison burgers with bacon, fried onions, garlic, pickles, green onions, and barbecue sauce, though you’ll find plenty of regional variations. Enjoy your burger with a side of spinach or roasted potatoes for an authentic Wyoming meal.
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Trout
Bring your fishing reel — or at least your appetite — when you next visit Wyoming. Trout fishing is big here, and the state fish is actually the Cutthroat Trout. Some of the top angling spots include the North Platte River, Fremont Canyon, and the Big Horn River.
But even if you don’t intend to hook your own meal, you’ll find plenty of trout ready-to-eat in local restaurants. The fish is so popular in the state that the Wyoming Fish and Game Department actually collects recipes on its website. We recommend seeking out a good pan-fried trout heavily seasoned and served with warm butter.
If these ideas have already got you salivating for your next Wyoming meal, you’ll be pleased to know that we’ve only scratched the surface of what the state has to offer. You’ll find plenty of great food to enjoy on your next visit.
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