Garbage Plates: A Rochester "Tradition"

Garbage plates are a staple in the Rochester area of Western New York. When my ex-boyfriend and his best friend first described them to me, I shivered in horror and declared I would eat one over my dead body, or something equally dramatic. Not hard to believe, looking at the picture (from a Rochester restaurant, not from my kitchen).

What sort of concoction could elicit this type of initial response? Well, it's some combination of meats, condiments, macaroni salad, baked beans, onions, and, according to the Rochester Wiki article linked above, sometimes even a grilled cheese sandwich or fried fish.. a smorgasbord of.. well, garbage. The "grosser*" the finished product looks, the better it is, according to the "experts" who taught me all about this dubious delicacy.

How I make them:

1/2 bag frozen home fries
1 small container prepared macaroni salad
1/2 medium white onion, diced (approximately)
1 hamburger patty, cooked by your method of choice
1 slice of cheese (optional)
Various condiments

Cook home fries according to package directions. French fries or other frozen potato product may be substituted based on preference. Season to taste. I like to add some cajun seasoning as well as salt and pepper. Cook your hamburger or cheeseburger patty however you like. Layer home fries, macaroni salad, and onions to your liking, then place patty on top (I cut mine up like a little kid ^_^). Apply ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce liberally and enjoy!!!! Substitute/experiment at will.


*It really does look disgusting. And sounds disgusting. But taste???? Defies all explanation. It's so amazing. Like the perfect summer picnic in your mouth. I have yet to add chili to it but that sounds delicious as well...