These ‘Weird’ Kentucky Foods Are Actually Local Legends

After a conversation today here at work about a party theme, I was compelled to hop on Google and search for Kentucky's weirdest foods. (No, I can't reveal the contents of the conversation; proprietary party talk and all.)

Kentucky Food

You could do a lot worse than taking a deep dive into Kentucky delicacies. You'd find the inimitable Kentucky Hot Brown. I call it "inimitable" because I've had imitations (that's what they tasted like), and I was gravely disappointed. Not everybody can prepare one perfectly. Of course, we have bourbon balls, which were invented right here in the Commonwealth. Makes sense. Oh yes, Derby Pie. I almost forgot.

Weird Kentucky Food

But none of those are weird. When I did that Google search, I found dishes that I consider to be perfectly normal (in fact, that's how I'll start) and foods that, yes, seem very bizarre as Kentucky delicacies

Burgoo

This magnificent soup or stew is an amazing concoction of vegetables and three different meats. If you're not in my hometown of Owensboro, you'll like get chicken, pork, and beef. If you're here, you'll get mutton. I won't eat it without mutton, but I know from experience that many people who are not from here cannot stand mutton. I suppose the fact that it comes from sheep makes it weird? And yes, mutton made the list of weird foods, too. Anyway, on we go.

Benedictine

I don't know how something that sounds tailor-made for afternoon tea parties is a Kentucky specialty, but this cucumber and cream cheese sandwich always has been. Credit Louisville caterer Jennie Carter, who created it around the turn of the 20th century. It's a Kentucky Derby staple. Yes, I think it's odd as a Kentucky delicacy, but it looks incredible.

Soup Beans

It's pretty simple. You fix up a pot of beans that are seasoned with onions, and either ham hocks or bacon, and you have an extraordinary bowl of goodness called "soup beans." We just always called them "beans." Pinto beans or navy beans are probably your best option. Also, you must have cornbread, and like mine with a little homemade relish or chow-chow. I want some now. Not kidding.

Rolled Oysters

Sure enough, an ocean creature is at the heart of one of Kentucky's most popular dishes. You had to know we'd get to something fried, and here they are. Three oysters are clumped together, dipped in batter, and rolled in cracker crumbs. Drop them in hot fat, and you have a magnificent appetizer or entree. Cocktail sauce is the traditional accompaniment.

Donut Burgers

Finally, we have something sweet, sort of. Lovingly nicknamed "The Widow Maker" or "Wi-dough Maker," these unique creations have become popular items at the Kentucky State Fair. I'll level with you; I had one and couldn't finish it. That's because I couldn't stand it. I've never been a fan of mixing beef with anything sweet. They kick this recipe up several notches and make it a breakfast sandwich and a contest at Louisville's Hi-Five Doughnuts.

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You could take this weird list and really have a fun, themed party. Put some Ale 8 One out for everybody, and have a great time.