A State-by-State Guide to the Most Iconic Foods in America

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Wyoming: Bison Burger

Wyoming, with its wide-open plains and cowboy culture, finds its iconic food in the form of the bison burger – a frontier twist on America’s classic hamburger. Bison (often colloquially called buffalo) once roamed the state in massive herds, and though they were nearly driven extinct in the 19th century, conservation and ranching efforts have brought them back. Today, bison meat is a common feature in Wyoming kitchens and restaurants, prized for being leaner and slightly sweeter than beef. A bison burger is prepared much like a beef burger, but the meat’s lower fat content means it’s often cooked a bit more carefully to avoid drying out – usually to medium doneness at most. The flavor is robust and rich, but not gamey, with a deeper red color to the meat. Many who try it notice it’s a little lighter on the palate than a beef burger, but still very satisfying. In Wyoming you might find bison burgers topped with classic fixings like cheddar, grilled onions, or even green chiles, or kept simple to let the meat’s flavor shine. Given Wyoming’s ranching traditions, it’s not uncommon to find bison chili, bison steaks, and jerky as well, but the burger has a special place as a symbol of the Old West meeting the new era. Enjoying a bison burger at a local Wyoming saloon or around a campfire near Yellowstone connects you to the state’s pioneer past, when bison were a crucial resource. It’s a nod to wildlife and western heritage on a bun – and as a bonus, bison meat is lean and high in protein, so many consider it a healthier red meat option. In the spirit of Wyoming, this burger is hearty, wild, and free – much like the state itself.

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