A West Virginia original, the pepperoni roll is a baked roll filled with pepperoni. It's a portable and satisfying snack that has become a regional favorite. ¹⁾

Ramps, also known as wild leeks, are a pungent and flavorful wild onion native to the Appalachian region. They are celebrated in West Virginia and used in various dishes during ramp season. ²⁾

West Virginia is known for its apple orchards, and apple butter is a popular preserve made by slow-cooking apples with sugar and spices until they become a thick, spreadable consistency. ³⁾

A classic Appalachian dish, soup beans (usually pinto beans) and cornbread make for a simple and comforting meal. It's often served with sliced onions, green onions, or chow-chow (a pickled relish). ⁴⁾

West Virginians have a unique way of topping their hot dogs. A hot dog with “everything” typically includes chili, mustard, coleslaw, and onions. ⁵⁾

The pawpaw is a native fruit in West Virginia, and it has a custard-like texture and a tropical flavor. It's often used in desserts, such as pawpaw pudding. ⁶⁾

A pickled relish made from a variety of vegetables, chow-chow is a common condiment in West Virginia. It adds a tangy and flavorful kick to dishes like soup beans and hot dogs. ⁷⁾

Made with local apples and a sweet pastry, West Virginia apple dumplings are a delicious dessert. They are often served with a drizzle of cinnamon sugar syrup. ⁸⁾

West Virginia hosts ramp festivals celebrating the pungent wild leek. These events feature ramp-centric dishes, live music, and community gatherings. ⁹⁾

A Southern Appalachian tradition, red-eye gravy is made by deglazing a pan with black coffee after frying country ham. It's often served over biscuits or grits. ¹⁰⁾

In traditional Appalachian cuisine, fried squirrel is a dish that reflects the region's hunting culture. The meat is often breaded and fried until crispy. ¹¹⁾

A simple type of cornbread, corn dodgers are small, round cornmeal cakes that are often pan-fried or baked. They are a staple in West Virginia meals. ¹²⁾

A sweet twist on the classic biscuits and gravy, chocolate gravy is a popular breakfast or brunch dish in West Virginia. It involves a sweet chocolate sauce poured over biscuits. ¹³⁾

West Virginia cuisine showcases the region's agricultural abundance, Appalachian traditions, and a love for hearty, comforting dishes. The unique flavors and culinary heritage make it a distinctive and flavorful part of American cuisine. ¹⁴⁾

Butterfly tea, made from the flowers of the butterfly pea plant, is a traditional Appalachian herbal tea. It changes color from blue to purple when lemon juice is added. ¹⁵⁾