On episode 15 of the My American Meltingpot podcast, we’re getting out of the studio and hitting the streets of Philadelphia to find out who owns fried chicken. That’s right, fried chicken. In the United States, fried chicken is most often associated with African Americans. Sometimes that association is a positive one, other times it is simply a racist trope. But the reality is, fried chicken is a culinary delight enjoyed by different cultures and communities all over the world. In this episode, we’re deep diving into the world of fried chicken in Guatemala, South Korea and in the African American community. We’re challenging fried chicken stereotypes and learning how deep-fried poultry pulled one country out of an economic downturn. I promise, after listening to the episode, you’ll never think about fried chicken the same way again. You’re also going to be really hungry before we’re done. Let’s dig in.
Fun Facts about Fried Chicken & Resources from the Show
Editorial note, during the episode, we said Popeye’s KFC and Church’s were the top three national fried chicken restaurants. Many outlets would consider Chick-fil-A the number one fried chicken fast food joint, but because they specialize in sandwiches, I don’t put them in the same category as KFC and Popeye’s. But that’s just me.
Fried chicken is “Cool Again” and everybody in the restaurant business wants a piece to add to their bottom line.
Not the definitive global history of fried chicken, but still an excellent article from Eater about fried chicken’s American origins and its global reach.
Chef Valerie Erwin and I both referenced this award-winning book called, Soul Food: The Surprising Story of an American Cuisine, One Plate at a Time, by Adrian Miller. It is a delightful, historical exploration of the diverse cuisine of African Americans. Plus, I got to meet the author and his is as wonderful as his book.
If you’re in Philadelphia, hungry and would like to sample some of the restaurants mentioned on the show, try:
Federal Donuts for fried chicken and donuts.
Cafe Soho for Korean chicken wings and beer
Acme for Cheep Chicken Mondays
El Merkury for delicious Guatemalan street food (but no fried chicken).
Our amazing guests on the show were:
Chef Sofia DeLeon from El Merkury restaurant.
Chef Valerie Erwin, formerly of Geechee Girl Rice Cafe. Follow Valerie on social on Twitter and Instagram.
Dr. Soomin Soo of Temple University’s Lew Klein School of Media and Communication.
Do you have a favorite fried chicken recipe or story? Do you know what the 11 herbs and spices are used by KFC? Tell me about it in the comments below.
Peace!
