10 Weird Foods Every Iowan Grew Up With

Is there anything that brings us back to our childhood kitchen the way some foods do? These dishes will certainly sound familiar to people who were fortunate enough to grow up in Iowa. Some are probably more regional than others (Iowa isn't a tiny state, after all) but it's likely that no matter where in Iowa you are from, some of these foods will take you right back to home-sweet-home.

1. Corn on the Cob

Drenched in butter and salt, plain, grilled, boiled, or even raw right out of the field, Iowans know that sweet corn means summer.

2. Runza

Or maybe they called it a Beirock? Either way, this delicious and somewhat portable bread pocket stuffed with beef and sauerkraut is a gift from Nebraska. If you grew up in western Iowa, you definitely recognize this favorite.

3. Walking Tacos

Is there a better, or more complete, meal than a Walking Taco? Bust open that bag, load it up, and take it to go.

4. Tenderloin

This traditional Iowa sandwich is usually big enough for two meals. Townhouse in Wellsburg offers an excellent representation.

5. Puppy Chow

This delicious snack is typically made with Chex cereal, peanut butter, melted chocolate chips, and powdered sugar.

6. Maid-Rite

This loose-meat sandwich is simply finely ground hamburger served with mustard, pickles, or onions. It's a chain started in Iowa, but each location offers its own twist on this amazing sandwich.

7. Fried Cheese

We really have Wisconsin to thank for this. It's safe to say Iowa loves fried cheese.

8. Breakfast Pizza

Thank you Casey's! In Iowa, gas station food can be very good.

9. Morel Mushrooms

These wonderful and seasonal treats are especially enjoyed by people willing to go out during the springtime and hunt for them. They are Iowa-gold, though.

10. Iowa Chops

This seriously thick pork chop is a beautiful addition to a full Iowa meal. Seared and then baked, these juicy and flavorful pork chops are all the rage.

What did we miss? Tell us about your favorite Iowa food from childhood in the comments.