Meat and three or meat and three veg is a popular meal combination found in rural cuisine in the Southern United States, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
The name derives from an offering of any meat and three vegetable side dishes for a set price. In the Southern United States, it often comes with a bread roll or cornbread in lieu of a vegetable; elsewhere potato is the main starch. Often, the menu is set, typically at a fixed price.
Whereas blue plate specials may feature anything an establishment desires, the fundamental philosophy of an affordable yet filling meal is the same.
In the American South, typical meat choices include fried catfish, fried chicken, and brisket. Typical vegetable sides include green beans, collard greens, white beans, fried green tomatoes, potatoes, and corn on the cob. A drink may be included in the price, typically sweet tea.
In New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom the concept of meat and three veg (sometimes meat and two veg) relates to home cooking and is not generally available in restaurants.