San Francisco is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, with influences from around the world. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, this vibrant city has something to satisfy every palate. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious San Francisco famous food recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From the iconic sourdough bread that’s been a staple of San Francisco bakeries for generations, to the hearty seafood stews and risottos that showcase the city’s love affair with the sea, these recipes pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of this beloved city. Whether you’re a native San Franciscan or just visiting, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to give you a taste of what makes San Francisco so special.
San Francisco Sourdough Bread
San Francisco sourdough bread is a beloved classic that requires patience, as the fermentation process takes several days to develop its signature tangy flavor and chewy texture. This recipe yields two loaves of crusty, golden-brown goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F)
– 2 cups sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until the dough starts to come together in a shaggy mass.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let ferment in a warm, draft-free place for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Score two loaves, about 12 inches long each.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2-3 days (including fermentation time)
Cioppino Seafood Stew
This hearty seafood stew is a San Francisco classic, inspired by the Italian-American fishermen of Fisherman’s Wharf. This flavorful dish is perfect for a cold winter night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 lb mussels, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 lb fish (such as halibut or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add wine, tomatoes, oregano, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Add clams, mussels, and fish. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mission-Style Burrito
Get ready for a flavorful and filling burrito that’s inspired by the classic Mission-style cuisine from San Francisco. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory beans, and creamy cheese with fresh cilantro and tangy salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup Mexican rice, warmed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, beans, rice, bell pepper, and cilantro. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
4. Assemble burritos by spooning the chicken mixture onto tortillas, followed by cheese and a dollop of salsa.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anchor Steam Beer Battered Fish and Chips
Combine the classic British dish with the bold flavors of Anchor Steam Beer in this unique recipe for beer-battered fish and chips. This twist on a pub favorite will elevate your snack game.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into chunks
– 1 cup Anchor Steam Beer
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 cups potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
– Malt vinegar and lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beer, flour, paprika, and salt. Mix until smooth batter forms.
2. Dip fish chunks into the beer batter, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, fry potato strips in batches until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with malt vinegar and lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cakes
Savor the sweet flavor of Dungeness crab with this simple recipe for mouthwatering crab cakes. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these crispy patties are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add melted butter to the pan.
4. Cook crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Joe’s Special Scramble
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines scrambled eggs with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and cheddar cheese, served with a crispy tortilla wrap. This recipe is a great way to start the day with a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Pour the whisked eggs into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the eggs are scrambled to your liking, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the eggs and stir until melted.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the scramble by placing the egg mixture onto a warmed tortilla, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian-style Seafood Risotto
A classic Italian dish, this seafood risotto combines flavorful seafood with creamy Arborio rice and a hint of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add broth, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add seafood and white wine (if using). Cook until seafood is pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tetrazzini
Elevate your dinner game with this classic Italian-American dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 (14.1 oz) package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken in boiling water until cooked through; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and flour; stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked chicken with mushroom sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with chicken mixture.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent clam chowder served in a crispy sourdough bread bowl. This recipe combines the richness of clams, potatoes, and cream with the satisfying crunch of toasted sourdough.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups clam chowder mix
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add clam chowder mix, diced tomatoes, cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Arrange sourdough slices on a baking sheet and toast in oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
6. Ladle chowder into toasted bread bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Goddess Salad
Elevate your salad game with this classic recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado and mayonnaise with the crunch of fresh greens and veggies. This Green Goddess Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the avocado, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and tarragon until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the greens and toss to coat.
4. Top with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fortune Cookies with a Twist
Add a surprising twist to the classic fortune cookie by incorporating the sweetness of mango and a hint of spice. These unique treats are perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon mango puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Fortune cookie wrappers (about 20-25)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, mango puree, and ginger to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 20-25 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a fortune cookie wrapper on top of each disk and fold the edges to form a triangle. Press gently to seal.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
This recipe combines the classic comfort of pulled pork with the crunch and coolness of coleslaw, all on a soft bun. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional: pickles, barbecue sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in coleslaw.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Spoon pulled pork mixture onto buns and serve with pickles and barbecue sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Lobster Thermidor
This classic French dish is a decadent celebration of lobster’s rich flavor, paired with a creamy sauce and flaky pastry. With its buttery aroma and succulent texture, Lobster Thermidor is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) whole lobster, steamed and cooled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.
3. Add cognac and flambé until liquid is almost gone.
4. Stir in cream, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Arrange lobster meat in a baking dish. Spoon sauce over the lobster.
6. Top with Gruyère cheese and fold pastry over filling.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion, these grilled oysters are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oysters
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the oysters under cold water, then scrub them clean with a brush to remove any grit.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place an oyster on each piece of aluminum foil or a preheated grill stone.
5. Spoon a small amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each oyster.
6. Close the grill lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the oysters are cooked through and the butter is melted.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per side
Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the runny goodness of poached eggs, all on top of crispy whole-grain toast. Perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole-grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, chives)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and crack in the eggs. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still runny.
4. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and place on top of the avocado toast.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired red pepper flakes or chopped herbs.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious pasta dish, featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, snap peas, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture in a large serving bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Banana Cream Pie
This classic dessert is a staple of any dessert table. With its creamy filling, flaky crust, and caramelized bananas, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. Arrange sliced bananas in the pie crust.
5. Pour cream mixture over bananas.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ghirardelli Chocolate Brownies
These rich and fudgy brownies are infused with the deep, velvety flavor of Ghirardelli chocolate. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these treats are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup Ghirardelli semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and flour.
4. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of San Francisco with these 18 authentic recipes! From classic sourdough bread and cioppino seafood stew to international-inspired dishes like Italian-style seafood risotto and banana cream pie, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in San Francisco’s famous burritos, enjoy a plate of fish and chips battered in Anchor Steam beer, or try your hand at making crab cakes and clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. With these recipes, you’ll be able to recreate the city’s iconic flavors right in your own kitchen!
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