What Food is North Carolina Known For?
Exploring the State's Iconic Eats
North Carolina is celebrated for a rich culinary heritage that prominently features barbecue (What wine goes well with barbecue?), a food so central to its identity that rivalries have flared over regional styles. Two main barbecue traditions exist in the state: Eastern style, known for its vinegar-based sauce and use of whole hog, and Lexington style, which focuses on pork shoulder and incorporates a ketchup-based sauce. Both are customarily served with sides such as coleslaw and hushpuppies, creating a flavor profile that is distinctly North Carolinian.
Another hallmark of the state's gastronomy is the inventiveness with which it repurposes classic Southern ingredients. Dishes such as fried green tomatoes, often topped with pimento cheese, showcase the fusion of traditional Southern flavors. The state's contribution to the American pantry extends to beverages as well, with Cheerwine, the cherry-flavored soft drink, originating from Salisbury and claiming a devoted following due to its unique taste.
Seafood (What wine goes well with seafood?) also plays a significant role in North Carolina's cuisine, thanks to its extensive coastline. The state takes particular pride in its preparation of fresh, local fish and shellfish, (What wine goes well with shellfish?) offering an array of dishes that are both rooted in tradition and reflective of the state's coastal bounty. From the barbecue pits to the seaside docks, North Carolina's food scene is a vibrant expression of its history, geography, and culture.
Iconic North Carolina Dishes
North Carolina's culinary landscape thrives on classic dishes that have earned their iconic status over decades. Barbecue stands as a cornerstone of North Carolina food tradition, with a rivalry between Eastern style and Lexington style that's as friendly as it is fierce. Eastern style boasts a vinegar-based sauce, while Lexington or Western-style uses a ketchup-infused variety. Both styles typically involve slow-cooked, tender pulled pork.
Carolina-style hot dogs, topped with chili, onions, and slaw, offer a savory bite that reflects a melding of flavors distinctive to North Carolina cuisine. Similarly, livermush, a staple of western North Carolina, provides an authentic taste of the region.
Seafood enthusiasts celebrate Calabash seafood, a regional preparation of lightly battered and fried shrimp, (What wine goes well with shrimp?) fish, and oysters (What wine goes well with oysters?). Originating from a small fishing town, the style has become synonymous with high-quality Southern seafood.
North Carolina's soul is also captured in its classic side dishes and sweets:
Hushpuppies, small, savory cornmeal balls, are a go-to accompaniment for barbecue and seafood plates.
Fried green tomatoes, often paired with pimento cheese, marry tang and creaminess in a beloved appetizer.
Sweet endings come in the form of sweet potato pie and peach cobbler, each dessert deeply rooted in the state's agricultural heritage.
A lesser-known delight, the sonker, is a deep-dish fruit dessert special to Surry County, akin to cobbler but with a unique twist in preparation and taste.
For breakfast, the classic biscuits and gravy offer a comforting start, while sweet potatoes (What wine goes well with sweet potatoes?) find their way into numerous dishes, given North Carolina's status as a leading producer of the crop.
Through this array of dishes, one savors the rich tapestry of North Carolina's flavorful contributions to American cuisine.
Regional Variations of Barbecue
North Carolina is celebrated for its barbecue, which comes in distinct regional styles. Both Eastern North Carolina BBQ and Lexington or Western-Style BBQ feature slow-cooked pork as the centerpiece, each with its unique seasoning approach. Additionally, Carolina-Style Hot Dogs represent another variation, showcasing how barbecue influences extend beyond traditional pork dishes.
Eastern North Carolina BBQ
Eastern North Carolina BBQ is characterized by its exclusive use of the whole hog. The meat is smoked and then pulled apart, melding flavors across different cuts. Its sauce is a thin, spicy vinegar-based concoction, often incorporating pepper flakes for heat and spices that bring a sharp tanginess, contrasting with the richness of the pork.
Lexington or Western-Style BBQ
Referred to as Lexington style or Piedmont, this approach hones in on the pork shoulder. The sauce—sometimes called "dip"—integrates vinegar and ketchup, along with a touch of sugar, creating a sweet and tangy red sauce. This regional variant often accompanies red slaw, a coleslaw mixed with the same red sauce used for the barbecue.
Carolina-Style Hot Dogs
A Carolina-Style Hot Dog is dressed with a savory blend of chili, coleslaw, fresh onions, and sometimes mustard (how long does mustard last?). This hot dog encapsulates the essence of North Carolina barbecue with its bold use of spice and the complexity of flavors that harmonize within a single bite.
Popular Sides and Condiments
In North Carolina, the sides and condiments are as essential as the main course, often featuring a rich interplay of textures and flavors particularly in varieties of slaw and the beloved staples of the South.
Slaw Varieties
Eastern-style slaw is a key accompaniment to North Carolina barbecue, particularly when discussing the Eastern barbecue tradition, which emphasizes a vinegar-based dressing. This type of coleslaw is typically lighter owing to the absence of mayonnaise and emphasizes a tangy profile that complements the smoky flavors of the barbecue.
Conversely, Lexington-style slaw, a counterpart from the Western part of the state, often contains ketchup and mayonnaise, resulting in a creamier and sometimes sweeter slaw. This variation is usually paired with Lexington-style barbecue, which is pork shoulder-centric and served with this distinct side.
Southern Staples
Grits: Originating from Native American Muskogee tribe's preparation of maize, grits have become a Southern staple. In North Carolina, they're enjoyed as a versatile side, paired with everything from shrimp to cheese.
Cornbread: This essential Southern side is made from cornmeal and can vary from sweet to savory. It acts as a fitting accomplice to a bowl of greens or a hearty helping of barbecue.
Biscuits and Gravy: Soft, flaky biscuits served with rich, creamy gravy—often sausage-based—is a comfort food classic that one can find across North Carolina's diners and breakfast spots.
Greens: Collard, mustard, and turnip greens are long-cooked with ingredients like pork for a savory, melt-in-your-mouth side that's both nutritious and deeply flavorful.
Each of these items plays a pivotal role in the state's culinary traditions, often with family recipes passed down through generations. Whether it's the contrasting slaws or the beloved cornmeal-based items, North Carolina takes pride in its array of sides and condiments.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
North Carolina's dessert landscape is as rich and diverse as its cultural heritage, featuring an assortment of sweet treats that range from traditional baked goods to distinctive sodas. These delights not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also reflect the state’s history and innovation within its confectionary crafts.
Krispy Kreme Donuts
Founded in Winston-Salem, Krispy Kreme is a storied establishment in the realm of sweets. Vernon Rudolph began this iconic North Carolina company during the 1930s, with an aromatic recipe of yeast-raised doughnuts. These treats, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture, quickly became a common indulgence and a symbol of the state's rich tradition in pastries.
First Store Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Founder: Vernon Rudolph
Signature Item: Original Glazed Doughnut
Cheerwine and Soft Drinks
Cheerwine has carved out its niche in North Carolina's beverage scene since its inception in 1917. Developed by L.D. Peeler in Salisbury, this deep burgundy-colored soda stands out with its sweet cherry flavor and effervescent fizz. Cheerwine is often enjoyed on its own or as part of a float, adding a uniquely Southern twist to desserts.
Founded: 1917 in Salisbury, NC
Founder: L.D. Peeler
Typical Use: Solo beverage or in a float
Pepsi, another soft drink giant, has its origins in New Bern, NC, where Caleb Bradham concocted the famous cola. It has since become a global brand, but its roots are firmly planted in North Carolina soil, often enjoyed as a fountain drink and treasured part of the state's culinary history.
Origins: 1898, New Bern, NC
Inventor: Caleb Bradham
Noted For: Being enjoyed as a traditional fountain drink
Seafood Specialties
North Carolina's coastal geography makes it a haven for seafood aficionados. The state takes pride in its Calabash seafood, renowned for its style of lightly breaded and fried fish, shrimp, clams (What wine goes well with clams?), and oysters. This distinctive cooking method, originating from the small fishing town of Calabash, has earned the nickname "Seafood Capital of the World."
Oysters are another staple of North Carolina's seafood offerings, with a rich history in the state's eastern region. They are served up in a variety of styles - raw on the half-shell, steamed, or even smoked. The state's waters provide ideal conditions for oyster growth, making them a fresh and flavorful seafood choice.
Southern cuisine influences are evident in how North Carolinians prepare their seafood dishes. (What wine goes well with seafood dishes?) The local fare often includes a blend of seasonings and accompaniments that have a distinct southern charm. Here's a brief overview of popular seafood specialties found in North Carolina:
Seafood Type Description Calabash Fried to a light, golden crisp, (how long does golden crisp last?) often served with a side of hushpuppies. Oysters Offered raw, roasted, or in stews, a true taste of the state's oceanic bounty. Shrimp Can be found in shrimp and grits, a quintessential southern dish combining creamy grits with juicy, spiced shrimp.
As a haven for seafood lovers, North Carolina provides a diverse palette from the Atlantic Ocean to the dining table, ensuring that its seafood traditions continue to be a celebrated part of the state's culinary identity.
Snacks and Packaged Foods
North Carolina is not just about traditional plates; it's also home to iconic snacks and packaged foods, each bringing something special to the pantries across the state.
Texas Pete Hot Sauce
Originating from Winston-Salem, Texas Pete Hot Sauce (how long does hot sauce last?) has been a fixture in North Carolina since the Garner family developed it in the 1920s. Known for its balanced spice and versatility, Texas Pete is a staple not just in the state but across the country. It adds a kick to snacks and dishes without overpowering them.
Company: Garner Foods
Founded: 1929
Base: Vinegar, aged peppers, salt, and xanthan gum (how long does xanthan gum last?) (a thickener)
Mt. Olive Pickles
Mt. Olive Pickles, established in 1926, has grown to become one of the most recognized pickle brands from the state, located in the town of Mount Olive. Their pickles are renowned for their quality, made using a traditional brine method, and the company prides itself on using no preservatives in their snack pouches.
Headquarters: Mount Olive, North Carolina
Product Range: Dill pickles, sweet pickles, relish, and more
Specialty: Preservative-free
The dedication to flavor and quality preservation methods underscores North Carolina's commitment to delivering delicious snacks that suit a wide range of taste preferences.
Local Beverage Culture
North Carolina's beverage scene is as rich and diverse as its culinary traditions, with certain drinks holding a special place in the state's identity. Cheerwine stands out as a truly local soda with its cherry-flavored uniqueness that emerged from Salisbury. Despite originating during a time of sugar scarcity, Cheerwine carved a niche for itself with a distinct taste that offers a lower sugar content relative to other sodas.
Pepsi, the internationally recognized soda brand, has its roots in North Carolina as well. Born in New Bern, Pepsi was created by pharmacist Caleb Bradham and has since evolved into a global icon. It demonstrates the state's impact on the broader soda industry, which remains a significant facet of North Carolina's drink offerings.
The craft beer movement also thrives here, with a variety of microbreweries and brewpubs dotted across the state. These artisans of ale provide an array of options from light, summery lagers to robust stouts and IPAs, reflecting the state's innovation and quality in craft beer production.
Although not directly connected to the Carolina Panthers, game days see a surge in beverage consumption across the state, showcasing North Carolina's passion for sports and social gatherings where local drinks are often featured. From tailgate parties to sports bars, the state's drinks are integral to the experience.
In essence, North Carolina's beverage culture is a tapestry of historic sodas and burgeoning craft beers, all of which are integral to the state's social and economic fabric.
Famous Food Brands Originating in NC
North Carolina has given birth to several iconic food brands that have garnered national recognition. This section dives into the fascinating beginnings of two such brands: Krispy Kreme and Texas Pete, both with roots tightly woven into the state's history.
Origins of Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme began its journey in 1937 in Winston-Salem, when Vernon Rudolph purchased a secret yeast-raised doughnut recipe from a New Orleans French chef. With this recipe, he started Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and quickly became famous for their hot, glazed treats, a specialty that defines the brand to this day.
Initially a local gem, Krispy Kreme's delectable doughnuts led to opening stores beyond the borders of Winston-Salem, becoming a beloved institution across the United States.
Texas Pete's Winston-Salem Roots
Another brand hailing from Winston-Salem is Texas Pete, a hot sauce that has spiced up meals since the 1920s. Despite its name suggesting southwestern origins, Texas Pete was indeed created and marketed by the Garner family in North Carolina.
In the wake of World War I, amid a booming interest in spicy flavors, Texas Pete emerged with a zesty profile that offered the perfect balance of heat and flavor, solidifying Winston-Salem not just as a hub for sweets, but for savory sensations as well.
Culinary Events and Festivals
North Carolina's rich culinary heritage is celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year, each showcasing the state's famous food and drinks.
Lexington Barbecue Festival: Held annually in October, this festival pays homage to Lexington's claim as the "Barbecue Capital of the World." Barbecue enthusiasts can savor slow-cooked pork prepared over hickory logs, alongside a spread furnished by a plethora of vendors.
North Carolina Pickle Festival: Taking place in Mount Olive every April, this quirky festival is a tribute to the pickled cucumber. Festival-goers enjoy a range of pickle-related activities and savor the tangy treat in various forms.
Cheerwine Festival: Celebrated in Salisbury, the birthplace of the iconic cherry-flavored soda, Cheerwine. The festival features ample soda, local food, music, and activities.
Notable Food Festivals:
Festival Name Location Specialty Lexington Barbecue Festival Lexington Barbecue NC Pickle Festival Mount Olive Pickles Cheerwine Festival Salisbury Cheerwine soda and local cuisine
These events not only highlight North Carolina's signature foods but also reflect the state's culture. They provide culinary experiences steeped in tradition, allowing locals and visitors alike to immerse in the vibrant food scene. The festivals are an integral part of the state's identity, bringing communities together and supporting local businesses.
Food Industry and Agriculture
North Carolina's agriculture sector significantly contributes to its economy, with a particular focus on sweet potato production and its sizable poultry and pork industries. The state's diverse climate allows for a variety of crops and livestock, making it a central player in America's food supply chain.
Sweet Potato Production
North Carolina leads the nation in sweet potato production, an achievement that reflects the state’s dedication to cultivating this versatile and nutritious vegetable. Sweet potatoes are not only a dietary staple but also an economic powerhouse, with North Carolina farmers producing the vast majority of sweet potatoes consumed in the United States.
Key Facts:
Rank: No. 1 in the U.S. for sweet potato production
Crops: Millions of pounds annually
This dominance can be partly attributed to the state's favorable growing conditions and the expertise of its farmers in selecting, planting, and harvesting the best varieties.
Poultry and Pork Industries
Poultry and pork are central to North Carolina's identity, often referred to as the "Tar Heel State", with these industries being key to its agricultural economy. It ranks highly among the states for its production of turkeys, hogs, and broiler chickens.
Poultry Industry:
Broiler chickens: Rank No. 4
Turkeys: Rank No. 2
Pork Industry:
Hogs and pigs: Rank No. 3
The state’s commitment to safe and ethical animal husbandry practices ensures the production of high-quality meat that feeds the iconic BBQ sandwich culture and the love for fried chicken within North Carolina and beyond. The agricultural community here also focuses on innovation and sustainability in its farming practices, contributing to the overall health of the food industry.
Impact of North Carolina Cuisine on Southern Cooking
North Carolina cuisine plays a significant role in shaping the broader mosaic of Southern cooking. Barbecue is a central element of the state's culinary influence. North Carolina's take on barbecue centers on slow-cooked pulled pork, typically prepared over a wood-burning pit. This method imbues the pork with a smoky essence that is a hallmark of Southern barbecue traditions. The pork is then shredded and often served with a vinegar-based sauce, a distinct North Carolina contribution that has influenced barbecue styles across the Southern United States.
The flavor profile of North Carolina extends beyond barbecue, incorporating a blend of coastal and inland tastes. Coastal regions contribute seafood dishes, integrating elements from Caribbean and Gullah cultures. This infuses Southern coastal cuisine with unique flavors that add to the broader Southern palate.
Here is how North Carolina's flavors spread into Southern cuisine:
Seafood: Fresh fish and shellfish become staple ingredients, reflecting North Carolina's coastline and affecting Southern coastal menus.
Sauce: Tangy vinegar-based sauces contrast with thicker, sweeter sauces found elsewhere in the South, offering varied barbecue experiences.
Cultural Integration: Gullah and Caribbean influences merge with traditional Southern ingredients, broadening the flavor spectrum.
The state's tobacco heritage unexpectedly contributes to Southern cooking by adding subtle undertones of vanilla and cocoa to certain dishes, showcasing how agriculture impacts flavor. Cultural traditions from the Piedmont area introduce earthier flavors derived from the foothills of Appalachia.
In summary, the rich tapestry of North Carolina's culinary traditions enriches Southern cuisine by bringing distinctive flavors and techniques to the table, which have been adopted and adapted by surrounding Southern states.
