Native American cuisine is diverse and varies significantly by region and culture, as there are more than 574 currently federally recognized Native American tribes in the US alone. However, there are some common foods that are part of many Native American diets. Here are some examples:
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Corn: Corn is one of the most important Indigenous American crops and is used in many Native American dishes. It is often used to make bread, tortillas, and porridge.
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Beans: Beans are another important crop and are often eaten with corn. They are a good source of protein and are used in stews, soups, and salads.
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Squash: Squash is a versatile vegetable that is used in many Native American dishes. It can be roasted, boiled, or mashed and is often used in stews and soups.
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Wild rice: Wild rice is a type of grass that grows in shallow water and is an important food source for many Native American tribes. It is often used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
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Fry bread: Fry bread is a type of bread that is made by frying dough in oil. It is a popular food in many Native American communities and is often served with toppings such as honey, jam, or meat.
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Salmon: Salmon is a popular fish in many Native American diets, especially in the Pacific Northwest. It is often cooked on cedar planks and served with vegetables.
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Berries: Many Native American tribes eat a variety of wild berries, such as blueberries, cranberries, and huckleberries. They are often used in desserts, jams, and sauces.
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Meat: Depending on where they lived, Native Americans consumed a variety of wild and domesticated animals, such as buffalo, deer, turkeys, ducks, and fish.
Its worth noting that Native American cuisine is often underrepresented and misunderstood in the United States, and many of the contributions that Native Americans have made to the foods eaten everyday around the U.S. are not acknowledged as part of the history taught in schools.
