Michigan’s Super Bowl super foods

They say that Super Bowl Sunday is second only to Thanksgiving when it comes to food consumption in a single day in America. That means a lot of dollars being spent, and whether placing an order, or relying on grocery stores, there are plenty of ways to keep things simple and local for the big game.

Popcorn
Salty kernels seem to top the list of snacks we turn to when watching anything on TV. Sure, you can buy some national brand and put it in the microwave, but there are much healthier, tastier options when you’re lucky enough to live in Michigan. Pop Daddy makes a variety of flavors using red kernels. Mystic Kettle brings a little sweet to your salty, and also has a line of Michigan-grown kernels if you prefer to pop your own. Kalamazoo Kettlecorn and Detroit Popcorn Company have other fresh and fluffy options.  

Chips and Dips
No matter what you’re looking to crunch on, chances are you can find it from Better Made. They offer everything from popcorn to pretzels and of course those famous chips made from potatoes or corn. If you like some dip with your chip, Country Home Creations offers unique mixes or you can buy pre-made French onion-style dip from Guernsey or Calder. Here in Michigan we love our hummus and Steve’s Backroom makes some of the best. Then again if your chips are of the corn variety, you’ll need some tasty salsa and Little Diablo and My Salsa provide plenty of tantalizing options.

Chicken Wings
According to the National Chicken Council, 1.3 billion wings will be eaten leading up to and during the Super Bowl, which means there’s a high probability they are on your menu…or should be. Try or scrumptious recipe featuring Scotty O’Hotty and Drake’s to help you whip up wings with local pizzazz.

 Chili
When it comes to a main course, perhaps nothing says football Sunday like a big ol’ pot o’ chili. You can turn to Eden Foods for a great selection of canned chili, tomatoes, beans, and spices. Try a dash of Scotty O’ Hotty Beer-Bacon Chipotle to add some smoke for a unique flavor, or make it really easy on yourself and just pick up cans of Woodward Avenue Chili.

Pizza
While the rest of the nation may argue over New York VS Chicago as America’s pizza capitol, the truth is, it’s Michigan. With four of the top fifteen pizza companies in the nation: Domino’s, Little Caesars, Jet’s, and Hungry Howie’s, you can easily pick up your phone and line up a feast with hometown flavor. Aside from these larger chains that dot the state, there are countless mom and pop shops from which to choose as well. Order up a Detroit-style pie to really make your crew smile.

BBQ Ribs and Chicken
This winter has been mild enough to keep the grill going throughout the season, so if you’re firing yours up, or popping some ribs in the oven, Michigan is chock full of delicious barbecue sauces to enhance your Sunday. Check out Bella Rouge, Belledine’s, or Uncle Bob’s to name a few of the many local options.

Sandwiches
One of the simplest ideas is to go with sandwiches. You can order up giant subs or an assortment of footlongs from Tubby’s or make your own. Load up on meats from Kowalski, Dearborn, or Country Smoke House. Add some cheese from Williams, then give them a boost with delicious, uniquely Michigan condiments like Fessler’s and Backwoods Mustard.

Sweet Treats
Football fans often start with salty, but as the evening rolls on, the cravings for sweets will hit your crowd. Consider having a Michigan staple on hand like fudge or boxes of assorted chocolates to pass. Kilwins, Ryba’s, Murdick’s, and Sanders can all be found fairly easily throughout the state. You can even create your own halftime sensation by busting out Sanders famous Hot Fudge Cream Puffs for the crowd. Bake your own shells or find them frozen in stores. Combine with vanilla ice cream from Sanders, Guernsey, or Hudsonville, and top with the infamous chocolatey goodness.

Beverages
Of course, regardless of menu, your family and friends will want to wash the delectable treats down with refreshing beverages. Bloody Mary mix from Vivios or McClure’s pairs well with vodka from Valentine or Grand Traverse Distillery. For brews you can find a unique variety to suit different tastes readily available in local stores from Atwater, Short’s, Founders, or Bell’s. If wine is more to your guests’ liking popular local brands include Fenn Valley, Black Star Farms, Chateau Grand Traverse, and St. Julian. Keep plenty of Faygo and Absopure on hand for little guests and those who don’t wish to partake in beverages of an adult variety.

Eat heartily, drink responsibly, and enjoy the game!