Hotdish

Hotdish is a variety of casserole that originated in the Midwestern United States. It is typically a one-dish meal that combines a protein, a starch, a vegetable, and a canned or frozen soup. The dish is popular in states such as Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and parts of Iowa.

History

The origins of hotdish can be traced back to the early 20th century. It was a practical solution for housewives who were looking for simple, affordable meals that could feed their families. The use of canned soup as a binder and the inclusion of inexpensive and readily available ingredients made hotdish a staple in many Midwestern homes.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main components of a hotdish are a protein, a starch, a vegetable, and a canned or frozen soup. The protein is typically ground beef or a type of poultry, but can also be fish or other meats. The starch is often potatoes or pasta, and the vegetable can be anything from green beans to corn. The soup is usually cream-based, such as cream of mushroom or cream of chicken.

To prepare a hotdish, the ingredients are combined in a single baking dish, then baked in an oven. Some variations of hotdish are topped with crushed potato chips or French fried onions for added crunch.

Variations

There are many variations of hotdish, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of the Midwest. Some popular variations include:

• Tater Tot Hotdish: This version of hotdish is topped with Tater Tots, a type of grated and deep-fried potato.

• Wild Rice Hotdish: In this variation, wild rice is used as the starch. This is particularly common in Minnesota, where wild rice is a local staple.

• Hamburger Hotdish: This is a simple version of hotdish that uses ground beef as the protein.

Cultural Significance

Hotdish has a significant cultural role in the Midwest, particularly in Minnesota. It is a common dish at potluck dinners and is often associated with comfort food and home cooking. The Minnesota State Legislature even holds an annual "Hotdish Competition" where lawmakers compete to see who can make the best hotdish.

See Also

• Casserole
• Midwestern United States
• Comfort food