Chicken-Fried Steak

Just like the state fair, minus the crowds.

A pinch of sugar in the spice rub ensures picture-perfect grill marks with layers of flavor.

An espresso-and-cumin-spiked rub (or brine) gives this smoked chicken impressive flavor.

Rather than breaded and fried as you might expect croquettes to be, these are something more akin to a seared chicken salad patty.

An ex-boyfriend’s mom—who emigrated from Colombia—made the best meat sauce—she would fry sofrito for the base and simply add cooked ground beef, sazón, and jarred tomato sauce. My version is a bit more bougie—it calls for caramelized tomato paste and white wine—but the result is just as good.

This is one of the best fried chickens ever. From southern Thailand, gai hat yai is known for its crispy skin, great aromatics, and super juicy meat.

Reminiscent of a classic diner dessert, this chocolate cream pie offers pure comfort in a cookie crust.

This dish is not only a quick meal option but also a practical way to use leftover phở noodles when you’re out of broth.