Episode Details

This episode of United Taste of America explores South Dakota's history, economy, and regional foods, shaped by Native, German, Czech, Scandinavian, and ranching traditions. Along the way, we visit the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore and pair the journey with a South Dakota-themed playlist.Host Rick K. Jones covers the state's settlement, Native American history, agriculture, and cattle culture—with a tasty tour of signature dishes like Indian tacos, chislek, and German pastries.

Key topics

• South Dakota's cattle and ranching heritage—and how rail lines helped connect the industry to Omaha.
• The Black Hills and Badlands, central to the state's history and tourism.
• Native American history, including the Sioux and the Wounded Knee Massacre, and the influence of Indigenous food traditions.
• The Black Hills gold rush, Deadwood, Wild Bill Hickok, and the region's frontier legacy.
• Tourism favorites including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, camping, fishing, rafting, horseback riding, and dude ranches.
• South Dakota food traditions: lefse, bierocks, kuchen, kolaches, and chili-dusted cinnamon rolls.
• Regional specialties including Indian fry bread and Indian tacos, chislek, pheasant, and walleye.
• Restaurants to know: Meridian Corner in Freeman, Alpine Inn in Hill City, and Grey Goose Store and Social Club in Pierre.
• A playlist featuring South Dakota-connected songs and artists, including Dwight Yoakam, the Bee Gees, Shawn Colvin, Myron Floren, and Bob Dylan.

Timestamps

(00:00) South Dakota vs. North Dakota: cattle, towns, and railroads
(01:38) Tourism, the Badlands, and the state's early appeal to European visitors
(02:09) Gold in the Black Hills and the road to statehood
(02:37) Wounded Knee, Deadwood, and South Dakota's frontier legacy
(03:28) Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and modern tourism
(04:24) South Dakota songs and the episode playlist
(05:14) Immigrant dishes: lefse, bierocks, kuchen, and kolaches
(06:13