Most Popular Derby Day Dishes By State

Millions gather to watch the most exciting two minutes in sports each May: the Kentucky Derby. But what are they munching on in the hours before and after the race? American Gambler looked at publicly available search data to determine the most popular Derby Day dish in each state. Here are the most popular dishes.  What is your favorite dish?

Pimento Cheese

The most popular dish overall was none other than the classic comfort food; pimento cheese.  It was tops in Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Michigan, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota.  Classic pimento cheese is made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimento, diced onion, and some other flavor enhancers, including hot sauce.  It's perfect served with crackers, veggies, and a mint julep.

Benedictine Spread

Benedictine Spread was most popular in 9 states; Alaska, Connecticut, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, and Ohio.  This spread is made from cream cheese, sour cream, cucumbers, and herbs.  It is best served with carrots, celery, and cucumbers. 

Kentucky Hot Brown

This was a favorite in Arizona, Idaho, Indiana, Missouri, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah.  The Hot Brown is an open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon, and Mornay sauce is a southern favorite that began at The Brown Hotel in Lousiville.  

Southern BBQ

From wings to ribs, Southern BBQ is a favorite in California, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Mississippi, and Texas.  This succulent dish is perfect served with corn muffins, corn fritters, or mashed potatoes.

Bourbon Balls

Bourbon Balls were a favorite in D.C., New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.  This cookie-cake like dessert is made with pecans, graham cracker crumbs, cocoa, sugar, and bourbon.  

Derby Pie

This original Kentucky Derby Pie is a favorite in Colorado, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Virginia. The classic pie is made in a traditional crust with a chocolate and walnut filling. 

Bourbon Glazed Ham

Bourbon Glazed Ham is a favorite in Minnesota and Wyoming.  Glazed ham isn't just for Easter guys!  Add some delicious bourbon orange glaze to make this classic Kentucky Derby treat. 

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