United States: American Coastal Seafood Tradition

With extensive coastlines along the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Gulf of Mexico, seafood is a crucial part of American cuisine. Early settlers and Indigenous peoples of North America developed a rich seafood tradition, and this heritage continues today with distinct regional variations.

Culinary Tradition: American seafood cuisine varies widely by region. In the Northeast, "clam chowder" and lobster rolls are iconic. In the South, "Cajun shrimp gumbo" and "fried catfish" are popular. "Fish and chips" (influenced by British settlers) and "crab cakes" are staple dishes in coastal regions. Seafood is often grilled, fried, or used in soups and stews.