Ch 14- MexAmerica

The MexAmerica region is one of only two culturally defined geographic regions in the text. There are a slew of different peoples present in this region; with a variety of histories and customs that also exist. There is, however, in the space between southwest Texas, New Mexico and southern portion of Arizona, a unifying presence of Hispanic and Mexican influence. This can certainly be seen in the food one would encounter traveling through this area. 

The food of Philadelphia has been influenced by the many cultures of the people who immigrated there early in the city's history. There are several food items that are unique to Philly, and this has become a part of all Philadelphian's identity. The Philly Cheese Steak, Soft Pretzels, Tastykakes, Scrapple, and Taylor's Pork Role, are all important foods found throughout the city. 

Inside Reading Terminal Market

These items, along with other delicious and unique foods can be found at Philly's Reading Terminal Market. Since 1893, this indoor market in center city have provided shoppers with access to over 50 merchants under one roof. The foods here are from all corners of the world. Greek, Indian, and Moroccan, as well as Amish farmed deli meats, and of course, the classic Philly staples can also be enjoyed here as well.

Philly Cheese Steaks (not to be confused with cheesecake), are perhaps the most popular food item that belongs to Philadelphia. Often imitated but never duplicated, these steak sandwiches can be with or without onions, with cheese wiz, provolone or american cheese always served on the delicious local bread. The bread is what makes this sandwich so incredible. If you want, jalapeno peppers or mushrooms can be added, but many Philadelphians feel this is not how to really enjoy a classic cheese steak. 

While there are many shops throughout the city that offer delicious cheese steaks, Geno's and Pat's in South Philly's Italian market are perhaps the most famous. These two have been warring rivals for decades and each have their own devout following. On our trip there in August, my family ate at 4 different restuarants in 2 days! Our favorites were Jim's on South, and Chink's on Torresdale avenue in Northeast Philly. Chink's was the place where my Gram and Poppy spent their evenings in their youth eating sandwiches and enjoying delicious milkshakes. 

A few more unique food items to the Philly region are Scrapple and Taylor's Pork Role. Scrapple is supposedly from German origins and combines pork scraps with flour and then is pan fried. Taylor's Pork Role is commonly found in New Jersey and Philadelphia. Similar to Spam or Canadian Bacon, the contents of Pork Role were largely unknown. It has always come in circular packages and is often sliced toward the middle in order to prevent the meat from curling giving it a 'pacman' shape. These are both delicious products that are staples of Philly food. 

Taylor's Pork Roll

Scrapple

While MexAmerica and Philly each have different foodways, both regions have specific food cultures that surround them. Just like MexAmerica's food, Philly cuisine is influenced by the many cultures present.