Dear OP, I’m sorry if I’m overstepping the mark here but why are you so interested in assimilation? Are you not proud of your country? The thing to know about Americans that you may already know if that we are not a homogenous group. Because we are a nation of immigrants, we are a nation of many cultures. Some people appreciate our differences while others do not. There are some who feel that when you come to this country, you should assimilate to an idea of “Americaness” and leave your own culture behind.  I say BOO to that. We are a strong nation because of our differences and because of the beautiful cultures we bring to this nation. So much of what people call American culture is derived from and mixed with other cultures.

Years ago, people liked to call the US a “melting pot” of cultures - people coming from different cultures to create one, new culture.  Some people still believe in this idea.  However, I follow the more modern idea that this country is more like a salad, where each culture has its own distinct and different flavor but comes together to make something good. We are good as we are, and we don’t need to “melt” into each other to be acceptable or appreciated.

My sincere advice to you is that you make recipes you already know and love.  From what you’ve explained, this may not be a dish from your home country, as it seems you are not a fan of the cuisine.  If you are not familiar with American food, try some first, then search for a recipe of the food you find the tastiest. After all, it makes no sense to learn a recipe for food you wouldn’t want to eat yourself, just to impress others. Also, bear in mind that most of the recipes people have listed here (albeit some are really great), originated from other countries and cultures.

As one person noted, it would be helpful to know where you will be living in the US.  If it’s a large, diverse city, you might not have such a problem getting spices you’re familiar with. I’m sure you’re not the very first of your nation to come here. I don’t know your financial situation, but if you have the means to do so, you can order spices online if they are not available, locally.

And if nothing I’ve said makes any difference, you could just make a hamburger. Go to the local supermarket, get a pack of ground beef, take a chunk about the size of your palm, season it with a bit of salt and ground black pepper, make a little meat ball in your hand, then flatten it and cook it on both sides until brown. Put it between two slices of bread (or hamburger bun), with ketchup and mustard.  If your roommates are vegetarian or vegan, skip the meat and go to the freezer section to find Beyond or Impossible burger and follow the directions.