Have you ever wondered what the most iconic food in North Carolina is? Well, look no further because in this article, we will take you on a gastronomic adventure through the Tar Heel state to discover its most celebrated culinary delight. From crispy and tangy to smoky and savory, North Carolina boasts a rich food culture that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey as we uncover the dish that holds the title of the most iconic food in NC.
Barbecue
Eastern-style barbecue
Eastern-style barbecue is a beloved tradition in North Carolina. It is characterized by its use of whole hogs, which are slow-roasted over hardwood coals until they become tender and flavorful. The meat is then chopped or pulled and mixed with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. The result is a mouthwatering combination of smoky, juicy meat and the zing of vinegar. Eastern-style barbecue is often served with coleslaw and hush puppies, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Lexington-style barbecue
Lexington-style barbecue, also known as Piedmont-style barbecue, is another regional specialty in North Carolina. Unlike Eastern-style barbecue, Lexington-style barbecue focuses solely on pork shoulders, which are smoked for hours until they become fork-tender. The meat is then chopped or pulled, and tossed in a tomato-based sauce that combines sweetness, tanginess, and a touch of heat. This style of barbecue is often served on a bun with a side of creamy coleslaw, offering a delightful combination of smoky, saucy goodness.
Western-style barbecue
Western-style barbecue, also known as mountain-style barbecue, has its own unique flair in North Carolina. This style of barbecue primarily features pork shoulders, which are smoked low and slow to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. However, what sets Western-style barbecue apart is its use of ketchup as a base for the sauce. The result is a slightly sweeter and thicker sauce compared to its Eastern and Lexington counterparts. Western-style barbecue is often served with a side of baked beans or macaroni and cheese, adding richness and comfort to the meal.
Cherokee Cuisine
Fry bread
Fry bread is a staple of Cherokee cuisine and is a deliciously versatile food. It is made by combining flour, salt, baking powder, and water to create a dough, which is then stretched out and deep-fried until golden brown. Fry bread can be enjoyed in various ways, from being topped with savory ingredients like ground beef and cheese to being sweetened with honey or powdered sugar. This Native American delicacy is a true comfort food that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Cherokee people.
Possum and chestnut soup
Possum and chestnut soup is a traditional Cherokee dish that incorporates ingredients readily available in the Appalachian region. This hearty soup combines tender possum meat, which is stewed until it becomes fork-tender, with earthy chestnuts and a variety of aromatic vegetables and herbs. The result is a rich and flavorful soup that warms the soul and represents the ingenuity of Cherokee cuisine.
Wild ramps
Wild ramps, also known as wild leeks, are a cherished ingredient in Cherokee cuisine. These pungent wild onions have a unique flavor that is garlicky and subtly sweet. They are foraged from the forest during the spring and can be prepared in a variety of ways. They can be sautéed and served as a side dish, added to soups and stews for an extra burst of flavor, or pickled to be enjoyed throughout the year. Wild ramps not only add depth to dishes but also serve as a celebration of the bountiful Appalachian landscape.
Biscuits
Sweet potato biscuits
Sweet potato biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic Southern biscuit. These biscuits are made by incorporating mashed sweet potatoes into the dough, resulting in a tender and slightly sweet flavor. Sweet potato biscuits are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. They can be served with butter and honey for breakfast, filled with savory ingredients like ham or fried chicken for a satisfying lunch, or topped with whipped cream and berries for a delightful dessert.
Cathead biscuits
Cathead biscuits are a Southern favorite known for their impressive size. These large, fluffy biscuits get their name from their resemblance to a cat’s head. The dough is made with simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and baking powder, and is then dropped onto a baking sheet in large dollops. Cathead biscuits are perfect for sopping up gravies and sauces or for making a hearty breakfast sandwich. Their size and fluffiness make them a true Southern staple.
Buttermilk biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a classic and beloved staple in Southern cuisine. These biscuits are made using a combination of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cold butter, resulting in a flaky and tender texture. The use of buttermilk adds a tangy flavor that complements both savory and sweet accompaniments. Buttermilk biscuits are perfect for slathering with butter and jam, pairing with fried chicken for a classic Southern meal, or using as a base for biscuits and gravy.
Fried Chicken
Southern-style fried chicken
Southern-style fried chicken is renowned for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. This iconic dish is prepared by coating chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture and frying them until they are cooked through and irresistibly crispy. The key to perfect Southern-style fried chicken lies in the seasoning and the frying technique. It is often served with classic Southern sides like collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread for a soul-satisfying meal.
Chicken and waffles
Chicken and waffles is a unique and mouthwatering combination that offers the best of both sweet and savory worlds. This dish originated in the South and has since gained popularity across the country. It typically consists of crispy fried chicken served on top of a fluffy Belgian waffle, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Chicken and waffles is often drizzled with maple syrup or served with a side of hot sauce, striking the perfect harmony between sweet and spicy.
Hot chicken
Hot chicken is a Nashville specialty that has made its mark on Southern cuisine. This fiery dish is prepared by marinating chicken in a spicy buttermilk mixture, coating it in a seasoned flour mixture, and then deep-frying it until it is perfectly crispy. The chicken is then brushed with a spicy oil or sauce, adding an intense heat that is sure to awaken your taste buds. Hot chicken is often served with cooling accompaniments like pickles and white bread to balance the heat.
Shrimp and Grits
Traditional shrimp and grits
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that has become a staple in North Carolina cuisine. This comforting and flavorful dish features tender shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce, served over a bed of creamy stone-ground grits. The sauce can vary, but it often includes ingredients like bacon, onions, garlic, and a touch of hot sauce for a hint of spice. Traditional shrimp and grits showcases the region’s love for fresh seafood and hearty, satisfying flavors.
Gumbo-style shrimp and grits
Gumbo-style shrimp and grits takes inspiration from the rich flavors of Louisiana’s iconic gumbo. In this variation, the shrimp and grits are prepared with a flavorful broth made from a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat, combined with sautéed vegetables, like onions, bell peppers, and celery. The broth is then simmered until it thickens and becomes a rich gumbo sauce that perfectly complements the creamy grits. This hearty and comforting dish is a fusion of Southern and Creole cuisine that highlights the diverse influences in North Carolina’s culinary landscape.
Smoky bacon and mushroom shrimp and grits
Smoky bacon and mushroom shrimp and grits adds layers of flavor and texture to the classic dish. In this version, the shrimp is cooked with smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms, creating a savory and aromatic sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. The flavors of the bacon and mushrooms infuse the creamy grits, resulting in a harmonious blend of smokiness and richness. This variation showcases the endless possibilities for creativity and experimentation in North Carolina’s culinary scene.
Collard Greens
Smoked collard greens
Smoked collard greens offer a unique twist on this traditional Southern side dish. Collard greens are a dark leafy green vegetable that is known for its slightly bitter, earthy flavor. In this preparation, the collard greens are first smoked, which adds a subtle smokiness that complements the greens’ natural taste. The greens are simmered with traditional seasonings like onions, garlic, and smoked ham hocks, resulting in a delicious vegetable dish that can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a flavorful accompaniment.
Collard greens with bacon
Collard greens with bacon is a classic Southern preparation that combines the healthful greens with the indulgent flavors of bacon. In this recipe, the collard greens are simmered with bacon, onions, and garlic until they are tender and full of flavor. The smoky and salty bacon complements the slightly bitter greens, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture. Collard greens with bacon is a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs well with any Southern meal.
Vegan collard greens
Vegan collard greens offer a plant-based twist on this beloved Southern side dish. In this recipe, the collard greens are simmered with vegetable broth, onions, garlic, and a combination of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful dish that is entirely free of animal products. The greens retain their natural earthy taste, and the vegetable broth adds depth and richness to the dish. Vegan collard greens are a delicious and nutritious option that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Pimento Cheese
Classic pimento cheese
Classic pimento cheese is a staple in North Carolina and throughout the South. This creamy spread is made by combining shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, and a touch of hot sauce. The result is a rich and tangy mixture that is perfect for spreading on crackers or sandwiches, or for incorporating into various dishes like burgers or stuffed peppers. Classic pimento cheese represents the comfort and nostalgia of Southern cuisine and is a true crowd-pleaser.
Jalapeno pimento cheese
Jalapeno pimento cheese adds an extra kick of spice to the classic recipe. In this variation, diced jalapenos are added to the mixture, bringing both heat and flavor to the spread. The combination of the creamy cheese, tangy pimentos, and fiery jalapenos creates a bold and addictive taste that will satisfy any spice lover. Jalapeno pimento cheese is perfect for adding excitement to sandwiches, burgers, or even as a zesty dip for vegetables or tortilla chips.
Bacon pimento cheese
Bacon pimento cheese takes the classic spread to a whole new level of indulgence. In this recipe, crispy bacon is crumbled and added to the mixture, providing a salty and smoky flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheese and tangy pimentos. The addition of bacon takes this already-delicious spread to new heights, making it an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various dishes. Bacon pimento cheese is a must-try for any bacon lover or lover of bold flavors.
Boiled Peanuts
Traditional boiled peanuts
Traditional boiled peanuts are a beloved snack in North Carolina, especially during the summer months. This simple yet addictive treat is made by boiling raw peanuts in their shells with salt and spices until they become tender and flavorful. The resulting boiled peanuts have a unique soft texture and a salty taste that is both comforting and satisfying. They are a popular snack for road trips, picnics, or simply enjoying with friends and family.
Cajun-style boiled peanuts
Cajun-style boiled peanuts bring a spicy twist to this Southern classic. In this variation, the peanuts are boiled with Cajun spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic, infusing them with a fiery and aromatic flavor. The heat from the spices adds a delightful kick to the peanuts, making them a tantalizing snack for spice enthusiasts. Cajun-style boiled peanuts are perfect for those who crave a little extra heat and a lot of flavor.
Spicy boiled peanuts
Spicy boiled peanuts take the heat up a notch for those who like things extra spicy. In this recipe, the peanuts are boiled with a generous amount of hot sauce, chili flakes, and other fiery spices, resulting in a snack that is not for the faint of heart. The intense spice level pairs perfectly with the rich and nutty flavor of the boiled peanuts, creating a snack that is sure to satisfy even the most daring taste buds. Spicy boiled peanuts are a bold and addictive treat that will keep you coming back for more.
Calabash Seafood
Fried shrimp
Calabash-style fried shrimp is a well-known specialty of North Carolina’s coastal regions. This style of seafood is named after the town of Calabash, where it originated. In Calabash-style cooking, shrimp is coated in a light breading or batter and then deep-fried until it becomes golden and crispy. The result is a batch of succulent and flavorful shrimp that is perfect for dipping into cocktail sauce or tartar sauce. Calabash-style fried shrimp represents the coastal charm and culinary excellence of North Carolina’s seafood traditions.
Calabash-style fish fry
Calabash-style fish fry is another delicious variation of the Calabash-style cooking technique. In this preparation, various types of fish, such as flounder or catfish, are dipped in a seasoned batter and then deep-fried until they achieve a crispy and golden exterior. The fish remains tender, moist, and full of flavor on the inside. Calabash-style fish fry is often served with tartar sauce and hush puppies, making it a satisfying and classic seafood dish that showcases the bounty of North Carolina’s coastal waters.
Hush puppies
Hush puppies are a beloved Southern side dish that perfectly complements any seafood meal. These golden, deep-fried cornmeal fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The name “hush puppies” is said to have originated from the tradition of throwing these tasty morsels to dogs to “hush” them during outdoor fish fries and barbecues. Whether enjoyed on their own or dipped in tartar sauce or ketchup, hush puppies add a delightful crunch and a touch of Southern charm to any meal.
Sweet Tea
Classic sweet tea
Classic sweet tea is an iconic beverage in the South, and North Carolina is no exception. This refreshing and sweetened black tea is a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Classic sweet tea is made by steeping black tea bags in boiling water, then adding sugar to taste and allowing the mixture to cool. The result is a cold and flavorful drink that is perfect for beating the summer heat and satisfying your sweet tooth. Classic sweet tea represents the comfort and hospitality of Southern culture.
Peach sweet tea
Peach sweet tea is a delightful twist on the classic beverage. In this variation, freshly sliced peaches or peach syrup are added to the tea along with the sugar, allowing the fruity flavors to infuse and enhance the sweetness of the drink. Peach sweet tea offers a burst of summery freshness and a hint of natural sweetness, elevating the classic drink to a whole new level of deliciousness. It is the perfect refresher for hot summer days or as a special treat during peach season.
Mint sweet tea
Mint sweet tea adds a refreshing and herbaceous twist to the classic beverage. Fresh mint leaves are added to the tea during the steeping process, infusing it with a subtle minty aroma and flavor. The addition of mint adds a cooling sensation and a touch of brightness to the sweet tea, making it a revitalizing drink that is perfect for any time of year. Mint sweet tea exemplifies the South’s love for infusing beverages with fresh herbs and creating drinks that are as invigorating as they are delicious.