Michigan Crimes Against Food: Ope! Not From Around Here Are You?
There are certain table behaviors that can make you stick out like the giant thumb of the Mitten State. Let's take a look at the Top 7 Worst Crimes Against Michigan Foods:
1. Never Ask for Steak Sauce, Unless...
When attending an outdoor grilling function, also referred to as a BBQ, it is important not to offend the hosts. Always ask if you should take off your shoes before entering the house and NEVER, EVER ask for steak sauce before trying it first.
We take grilling very seriously in Michigan, and to assume our grilling needs any type of enhancement is insulting. Also never click another griller's tongs, it's in poor taste.
Related: The Best Hamburgers You've Never Had Are in This Michigan City
2. Get That Ladle Away From My Pasties!
Gravy on Pasties (if you don't know click here), is a big no-no in the Upper Penisula. Trolls are looked down upon for soaking their meat pies in meat sauce. When in the land of the Yoopers, switch out gravy for ketchup to blend in.
3. Mustard, Onions, and Beef Hearts...NO Ketchup!
Whether you prefer minced onions or chopped onions, heavy or light mustard, beef hearts or no beef hearts, one thing you can't do is put ketchup on a coney dog.
4. Chili is Not Only a Food, It's a Point of Pride in Michigan
If you're new to the state of Michigan it's important to develop your own unique chili recipe and an opinion about chicken chili. Your recipe doesn't have to be good, it just needs to be discussed when chili is brought up in conversation.
Related: Road Trip! David Portnoy's Top 15 Michigan Pizzas
5. Find Your Favorite Friday Fish Fry
Fridays during Lent are reserved for frying fish. It is important you find a church, American Legion, PNA, or somewhere on Friday night to consume mass fried cod and potatoes. If a roll and coleslaw aren't served leave immediately, as that kitchen doesn't have a Michigan Mom directing traffic.
6. What Exactly Are Grits? Michigan Doesn't Get Grits...
Though there are exceptions, most Michiganders don't get grits. Is it oatmeal? Potato slurry? If you're looking to avoid a series of probing questions about your culinary preferences, order hashbrowns.
Related: Jackson, Michigan's Best Breakfast Diners
7. Yes, We Put Olives On Hamburgers
You don't have to like olives or Olive Burgers, but you have to be accepting of the fact that in Michigan, we put them on hamburgers. Oh! And not just one or two! An entire jar of green olives could cover the entirety of the beef patty and a true Mitten State native will ask for more.
Beverage Bonus Round!
Unless you want to argue for several straight days, Coke, Pepsi, Faygo, Diet Rite, Dr. Pepper...they are all POP. Not soda, not coke. Pop.
And the best pop ever made was made in Michigan: