As much as we all love the Magnolia State, there is no doubt that Mississippi is one of the most overlooked places in the world. It is one of those things that many of us may struggle to wrap our heads around. Although we are often overlooked, this great state has made some grand contributions to the United States and the world. Some of these may surprise you.
Catfish Capital
Did you know that Mississippi is known as the “Catfish Capital of the World”? Most of the world’s catfish is sourced in Mississippi. Specifically, the town of Belzoni is known for its catfish farming. Each year, Belzoni has their Catfish Festival. What is your favorite way to eat catfish?
Mississippi River
This well-known river is the second largest river in North America. It is a river full of entertainment and history. Tourists from everywhere enjoy the riverboat tours and cruises. The Mississippi River runs through ten states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, and (of course) Mississippi.
Comeback Sauce
I have never thought about this before, but I realized that I have never had Comeback Sauce in any other state. This delicious, slightly tangy, slightly spicy sauce originated in Mississippi. Restaurants from Topher’s to Ed’s Burger Joint feature this popular condiment.
Singing the Blues
Did you know that Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues? World renowned musicians such as BB King and Muddy Waters created and popularized this genre of music.
First Ever Heart Transplant
In 1964, Dr. James Hardy performed the first ever heart transplant. This was done at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Considering that, on average, roughly 3700 heart transplants are performed annually, this event was major.
The World’s Largest Shrimp
Pascagoula, MS is home to the largest shrimp caught on the Gulf of Mexico. Next to fried catfish, Mississippians love shrimp— especially shrimp poboys. It’s great to know that most of our shrimp is sourced within our state!
“Bless Your Heart”
People who are not Mississippians may hear this and smile. Mississpians know better. “Bless your heart” is a phrase used by Mississippians to politely tell you that they think your actions are less than stellar. If it could be equated to another saying, it would be “you poor thing”!
“Full as a Tick”
“Full as a tick” simply means that you’ve eaten a bite (or two) too much. You may hear your family members say this, or you may have said it yourself. I’ve noticed an uptick in that phrase around Thanksgiving. This saying is usually accompanied by sitting on a recliner or couch and watching a football game.
Dr. Pepper and Pickles
There are certain foods and drinks that go together. Ice cream and cake. Cookies and milk. The list is limitless when it comes down to foods that “make sense”. Dr. Pepper and pickles? What seemingly appeared as an odd combination became a country-wide favorite. Mississippi influencer, Mississippi Memaw, set the country ablaze with her innovative twist on Dr. Pepper. She added pickles to it! Since then, people near and far have tried, and fallen in love, with this concoction. This combo became so popular, Sonic now has this as an option on their menu!
Thank Mississippi
Although our state is often misunderstood and possibly overlooked, there is no doubt that many of the foods, medical advances, music and more that we enjoy originated in this awesome state. What is something that was not listed here that originated in this state? Leave your comments on Our Mississippi Home’s Facebook page.
