The Ingenious Origin Of Tater Tots
From potato scraps to freezer aisle favorite: discover how the Pacific Northwest gave us the iconic tater tot and its surprising origin story.
Read MoreJoe Hoeffner
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The Takeout’s industry-leading editorial coverage is the result of collaboration between writers and editors with a wide array of experience and expertise in the world of food and drink. Every article is fact-checked by our team of editors to ensure accuracy. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information.
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Stories By Joe Hoeffner
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Why You Shouldn't Eat Rhubarb Leaves
Rhubarb stalks are used to make delicious jams and baked treats, but there's a reason why you might want to stay away from the plant's big leaves.
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Where Does Bacon Come From?
We all know that most bacon comes from pigs, but the exact parts that produce bacon may not be common knowledge. Give your bacon IQ a boost here.
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Chicken And Dumplings Look A Little Different In Delaware
Delaware may be small, but its slippery dumplings-flat, noodle-like twists on a classic comfort dish-give this First State big culinary pride.
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How To Make Toast Hawaii, Germany's Beloved Open-Faced Sandwich
As ubiquitous in Germany as the grilled cheese in the USA, this unique sandwich features unexpected ingredients and an interesting backstory.
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The Only State Where Dairy Queen Offers Tacos
When you think of Dairy Queen, nachos and tacos probably don't come to mind, but in Texas, the menu caters to the preferences of the locals.
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How North Carolina Became Home To An Iconic Cowboy Hot Sauce
Texas Pete, a North Carolina creation, defied expectations by becoming a top hot sauce with a fiery name inspired by cowboy culture. Yeehaw, tar heels!
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One Of The Most Popular Tuna Brands Is Also The Worst
Canned tuna is a lunch staple and an iconic sandwich filling, but some tuna brands score surprisingly low when it comes to taste, texture, and quality.
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How Hollywood Stars Helped Raise Alfredo Sauce To Culinary Fame
When it comes to Italian cuisine, there are many romantic fables about its most famous dishes. Fettuccine Alfredo rose to fame because of two Hollywood icons.
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The 3-Ingredient Base That Will Improve Your Soups
Building a warming soup with great flavor has a surprisingly simple start. This 3-ingredient base is a fool proof starter for stocks, broths, and stews.
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What Does It Actually Mean When Cheese Is Aged?
Aging cheese means more than just leaving it in your fridge. Cheesemakers' secrets for creating delicious varieties of aged cheese are explained here.
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Did The Real General Tso Have Anything To Do With The Beloved Chicken Dish?
General Tso's chicken is named after a famous Chinese figure, but did he have anything to do with inventing the recipe? We explore the history of the dish.
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This Legendary Chef Had The Most Ever Michelin Stars
Michelin stars celebrate culinary brilliance-but what about the man who earned 31 of them? Discover Joël Robuchon’s journey to perfection.
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Why Do Turkey Legs Taste So Much Better At The Fair?
Grabbing a turkey leg at the fair is a must-try fast food experience. But what is a turkey leg at the fair actually made of and why does it taste so good?
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Brighten Up Chicken Noodle Soup With One Tart Addition
Chicken noodle soup is one of the most comforting dishes you can make at home. Liven up the flavor in your broth with one simple added ingredient.
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The First Fast Food Chain To Offer Up A Value Menu
Fast food prices can hardly be called value these days, but there was a time when low prices were a staple and this chain started it with the first value menu.
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The Best Apple Pies Call For A Little Bit Of Culinary Destruction
Apple pie is a classic baked treat and a staple fall dessert. Use this easy technique to make your fruit pie filling even more mouth-watering.
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Does Fish Have White And Dark Meat?
Why is the flesh of certain fish different shades? Discover how myoglobin, exercise, and diet shape the flavors and hues of your favorite seafood.
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What Sets Kosher Salt Apart From The Rest?
Ever wondered why 'kosher salt' is a pantry staple? Explore its origins, unique texture, and universal appeal beyond Jewish dietary traditions.
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Is Baking Chocolate Really That Different From Regular Chocolate?
Baking chocolate isn’t just bitter - it’s essential for desserts! Learn why this unsweetened staple ensures perfect balance and flavor in every recipe.
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The Worst Panera Soup Is A Huge Let-Down
Panera Bread is well-known for its large soup menu. However, if you're heading out for a cozy winter lunch, this Panera soup option is best avoided.
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Do We Have Henry Ford To Thank For Non-Dairy Creamer?
Non-dairy creamer is a pantry staple and something many of us use everyday. But did you know that we may have Henry Ford to thank for this unique product?
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How To Give Your Turkey Gravy A Rich, Brown Color
Russell Kook, executive chef at Chicago's The Bellevue, shares expert tips for achieving a perfectly browned gravy. Hint: Don't ditch those bird bones!
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The US State That Grows The Most Blueberries Is On The West Coast
While many states have a thriving blueberry sector, one state on the West Coast seems to have them all soundly beat when it comes to growing the most amount.
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The Mongolian Horse Milk Origins Of Sour Cream
Sour cream is a beloved and versatile ingredient. However, this tangy condiment has a fascinating origin story that stretches back thousands of years.
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Do Ben & Jerry's Dairy Cows Actually Get Massages?
Ben & Jerry's is well-known for its interest in environmental standards and animal welfare. But does the ice cream brand really give its cows massages?
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The 10-Cent McDonald's DoorDash Order That Never Needed To Happen
In the annals of weird, wild food orders, this ranks up there. See the McDonald's Doordash order that mystified us, and surely the driver that made good on it.
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