The Super Bowl is less than two weeks away so it's time to start planning your menu. With so many excellent recipe choices (ribs, burgers, chili, nachos) we decided to narrow down the options by focusing on foods associated with this year's teams, the Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
For Arizona , we channeled the flavors of the Southwest for a casual Super Bowl buffet. We start with Classic Margaritas, which are so popular locally that they're sometimes called the state cocktail. Margaritas also happen to be the perfect complement to the region's spicy cuisine. For this buffet, we picked two main courses: Chili con Carne with Cheddar Shortcakes and Chicken Enchiladas. Both are typical Southwestern fare and are great for pleasing hungry fans. On the side, serve a zesty Cactus, Chayote, and Green Apple Salad and Southwestern Corn Pudding. The corn recipe makes extra, but it's delicious so you'll be happy to have the leftovers. Plus, it can easily be made the day before, saving you some time on game day. For dessert, we've selected Cocoa Chimichangas, which are a sweet spin on an Arizona favorite. The chimichanga, which is essentially a deep-fried burrito is said to originate from the state. In fact, several Tucson restaurants claim they invented it.
For our Pittsburgh menu, we decided to recognize some of the city's favorite foods. We choose Pierogies for an appetizer because they are a Pittsburgh tradition and speak to the city's Eastern European heritage. This recipe makes 48 pierogies so you'll have more than enough. As the recipe suggests, leftovers are great for breakfast. When selecting a main course we turned to one of Pittsburgh 's most famous restaurants for inspiration. Primanti Brothers, which started as a street cart in the 1930s and now operates 14 restaurants, is known for their sandwiches topped with French fries and coleslaw. Our tribute to Primanti Brothers isGrilled Kielbasa Sandwiches. Guests can choose to top theirs with the accompanyingClassic French Fries and Creamy Coleslaw or just enjoy them alongside. To complement this feast of Pittsburgh favorites, we recommend a nice American lager, preferably one from Pittsburgh 's own Iron City Brewing Company. We end the meal on a nostalgic sweet note with Banana Split Pie. Although there is some debate, many believe that the banana split was invented in a Pittsburgh area drugstore in 1904.
Which menu sounds better to you? Cardinals or Steelers?
For more game day recipes and tips, check out our complete Super Bowl package.
By Lauren Salkeld
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