26. Tennessee: Slugburgers
In Tennessee, the Slugburger is a beloved regional specialty with humble, Depression-era roots. Made from a blend of ground beef (or pork) and a filler like soybean meal or flour, these patties are seasoned, shaped, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Traditionally served on a bun with mustard, pickles, and onions, they are a deliciously crispy and flavorful treat The name “Slugburger” stems from its affordability, as the burgers once cost a nickel, nicknamed a “slug.” Today, they are celebrated as a cultural icon in Tennessee, with festivals like the annual Slugburger Festival in Corinth showcasing this unique culinary creation. Affordable, nostalgic, and satisfying, Slugburgers highlight Tennessee’s resourceful and flavorful food traditions.
