Virginians Love Their Sweet Potato Casserole

It’s a new year which means the holidays are finally winding down. Family celebrations have come to an end and that festive cheer is long gone. In some ways, it’s a bit depressing when Christmastime is over and it’s back to the daily grind, but for those who spent the holidays in a flurry of cooking and cleaning and shopping for gifts, the new year may come as a welcome respite.

It’s always interesting to compare recipes and holiday favorites to see how many other families are digging into a standing rib roast on Christmas Eve versus the ever popular holiday ham.

A Christmas tree retailer analyzed Google search trends to see which recipes were googled most often in the days and weeks leading up to the holidays, and discovered the most popular dishes in each state.

Apparently, folks in Virginia are big fans of sweet potato casserole because that specific “food phrase” was searched more than any other from November to January. Neighboring states Maryland and DC both preferred green bean casserole over the ‘taters.

Prime rib and turkey were the most popular entree searches in the US during the holidays, but when it came down to the sides, 17 out of the 50 states were searching for a casserole of some kind to complement their meal.

How does your family compare to others in Virginia? Were you a turkey family or a prime rib family? Was green bean casserole served in your home this year? Or did you explore other culinary delights?