Mississippi is a state rich in cultural diversity and history, and its food is a reflection of that. The cuisine here is a delightful blend of Southern comfort food, Creole influences, and coastal seafood, with many dishes unique to the region. If you’re planning a visit to the Magnolia State, make sure to sample some of its signature dishes that have become staples of its culinary identity. Along with tasting the incredible flavors, you can explore Mississippi attractions that highlight the state’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Let’s take a closer look at some of the must-try dishes when in Mississippi.
1. Fried Catfish
Fried catfish is an iconic Mississippi dish and a Southern classic. Served crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is often accompanied by hushpuppies (fried cornbread balls), coleslaw, and fries. Whether you get it at a local restaurant or a casual seafood shack, fried catfish is always a crowd-pleaser. The seasoning typically includes cornmeal and flour, sometimes spiced with a bit of cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick.
Many restaurants in Mississippi specialize in fried catfish, offering it in various forms, from sandwiches to platters. It’s a great example of Mississippi’s love for fresh, local ingredients—especially from the nearby rivers and lakes.
2. Gumbo
Gumbo, a dish with strong Creole roots, is a staple of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast cuisine. It’s a flavorful stew made with a roux, vegetables, and a variety of meats or seafood. Mississippi gumbo can be made with shrimp, crab, sausage, or chicken, and it is often served over rice. This hearty dish is spiced with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and paprika, and it’s typically enjoyed as a filling meal, especially during cooler months.
Gumbo in Mississippi often incorporates local seafood, which adds a special flavor to the dish. The diverse range of ingredients makes gumbo a rich and satisfying meal, perfect for experiencing the full spectrum of Southern flavors.
3. Crawfish Étouffée
If you’re in Mississippi during crawfish season, be sure to try crawfish étouffée. This dish is a delicious, rich stew made with crawfish, vegetables, and a flavorful roux-based sauce. The dish is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a thick and creamy consistency. It is typically served over rice and is often enjoyed with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Crawfish étouffée is a great example of Mississippi’s Creole heritage, where French, African, and Native American influences merge in a single, mouthwatering dish.
4. Biscuits and Gravy
A true Southern breakfast classic, biscuits and gravy is a must-try when visiting Mississippi. Soft, flaky biscuits are smothered in a creamy, savory sausage gravy, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. Some variations of the dish use bacon or other meats in place of sausage, but the essential combination of tender biscuits and rich gravy remains the same.
This dish is often enjoyed with eggs and hashbrowns or as a stand-alone breakfast item. You’ll find it in diners and Southern restaurants all across Mississippi, each version offering its own unique twist on the recipe.
5. Shrimp and Grits
Another popular Gulf Coast dish, shrimp and grits combines succulent shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits. The dish is typically made by sautéing the shrimp in a flavorful sauce, often with garlic, butter, and spices, before serving it on a bed of grits. The grits soak up all the delicious sauce, creating a rich, indulgent meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Whether served in a fine dining restaurant or at a beachside café, shrimp and grits are a delightful way to experience Mississippi’s love for fresh seafood and southern comfort food.
6. Po’ Boys
A po’ boy is a classic sandwich that originated in Louisiana but is equally loved in Mississippi. This sandwich typically features fried seafood—often shrimp or oysters—served on a French baguette-like bread, with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a tangy sauce. The crispy seafood, paired with the fresh vegetables and soft bread, makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Po’ boys are available at most seafood restaurants in Mississippi, and you can find them served with a variety of fillings, from fried fish to roast beef, depending on your preferences.
7. Sweet Potato Pie
Mississippi’s dessert scene is as rich and flavorful as its savory dishes, and sweet potato pie is one of the state’s most beloved sweets. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this pie has a smooth, velvety texture and a sweet, comforting flavor. The pie is often topped with whipped cream or a dollop of ice cream for added richness.
Sweet potato pie is a favorite during holidays, but you can find it year-round in bakeries and family-run restaurants across the state. It’s the perfect way to end a Mississippi meal.
8. Hushpuppies
No Southern meal is complete without hushpuppies, those crispy, golden cornbread fritters that accompany many seafood dishes in Mississippi. Typically made with cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and seasonings, hushpuppies are deep-fried to perfection and served alongside fried catfish or other seafood platters. They are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a favorite side dish.
Hushpuppies are often served with a dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, or simply enjoyed on their own.
9. Barbecue
Mississippi is known for its slow-cooked, flavorful barbecue. Whether you’re enjoying pulled pork, smoked ribs, or sausage, the barbecue in Mississippi is typically prepared with a dry rub and then smoked over hickory or oak wood. The resulting meat is tender and smoky, often served with tangy barbecue sauce.
Barbecue in Mississippi is often enjoyed with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. Many barbecue joints across the state also offer a variety of homemade sauces, allowing you to customize your meal to your taste.
Mississippi’s cuisine is a true reflection of the state’s rich cultural heritage, combining Southern comfort food with Creole influences and fresh Gulf Coast seafood. From fried catfish and shrimp and grits to sweet potato pie, each dish tells a story of the region’s history and the people who have called it home. As you explore Mississippi’s vibrant food scene, you’ll also discover the many Mississippi attractions that showcase the state’s diverse culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re savoring a delicious meal or enjoying the sights and sounds of the area, a visit to Mississippi is sure to be a memorable experience.