12 Strange Food Combinations Only People In Mississippi Will Love

When it comes to food combinations, there are common pairings such as peanut butter and jelly or cookies and milk, and then there are those that are a bit more geographically specific. And just like many other states, Mississippi is no stranger to food combinations that may leave outsiders a bit confused; here are 12 of them.

1. Chicken and Dumplings

Known as the "ultimate comfort food," chicken and (homemade) dumplings are a Mississippi favorite.

2. Collard Greens and Corn Bread

In Mississippi, if you’re eating collard greens there’s bound to be corn bread around.

3. Green Beans and Bacon Grease

To outsiders, bacon grease may seem more like something to be discarded rather than an ingredient, but after trying southern-style green beans, they’ll understand.

4. Batter-Fried Pork Chops and Beer

Indianola may be known as catfish country, but this pairing is a local favorite.

5. Biscuits and Sausage/Tomato Gravy

There’s nothing like starting the day with a flaky, homemade biscuit, especially when topped with one of two types of gravy that Mississippians just can’t seem to get enough of – sausage or tomato.

6. Pickles and Kool-Aid

Often referred to as "Koolickles," this recipe originated in the Delta and consists of pickles soaked in Kool-Aid, creating a sweet and sour treat.

7. Nabs and Coke

Peanut butter stuffed crackers, known by many southerners as "Nabs," paired with a Coke is basically a staple of the Southern diet.

8. Tomatoes and Mayonnaise

On a hot summer day there’s nothing better than a delicious ‘mater sandwich, which of course includes plenty of mayonnaise.

9. Red Beans and Rice

This slow-cooked comfort food pairing is not only unbelievably delicious but it’s inexpensive too.

10. Cabbage and Black-Eyed Peas

A tradition believed to date back to the Civil War, eating this combo on New Year’s Day is supposed to bring good luck and prosperity throughout the year.

11. Chitterlings (Chitlins) and Hog Maws

The ultimate soul food, chitlins and hog maws, is commonly prepared for large family gatherings or holidays.

12. Fried Pickles and Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing makes everything better and that includes fried pickles.

These dishes only further prove that Mississippi and good cooking just go together! What are some other food combinations specific to the Magnolia State? Keep this list going by adding to it in the comments section below.