South Carolina is a state with a rich culinary history and a diverse range of flavors. The state’s cuisine, often referred to as Lowcountry cuisine, incorporates fresh seafood, rice, and various spices from the coastal region. From seafood to southern comfort food, South Carolina has a lot to offer. Here are 30 famous foods in South Carolina that you must try:
Seafood:
- Shrimp and Grits – This is a classic southern dish that features shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce and served over a bed of grits.
- Oyster Roast – This is a popular way to enjoy oysters in South Carolina, where they are roasted over an open fire and served with butter and lemon.
- She-Crab Soup – This is a creamy soup that is made with crab meat and roe and is a staple in Lowcountry cuisine.
- Lowcountry Boil – This is a seafood boil that features shrimp, crab, and sausage, and is often served with corn on the cob and potatoes.
- Crab Cakes – These are a popular seafood dish that are made with fresh crab meat and spices and are often served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Southern Comfort Food:
- Chicken and Waffles – This is a classic southern dish that features fried chicken and waffles served together.
- Fried Chicken – This is a southern staple that is often served with sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
- Mac and Cheese – This is a classic southern side dish that is made with macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce.
- Collard Greens – This is a classic southern side dish that is made with collard greens and bacon.
- Biscuits and Gravy – This is a classic southern breakfast dish that features biscuits smothered in a creamy sausage gravy.
Barbecue:
- Pulled Pork – This is a classic southern barbecue dish that is made with slow-cooked pork that is pulled apart and served with barbecue sauce.
- Ribs – These are a classic barbecue dish that are often served with a side of coleslaw.
- Barbecue Chicken – This is a classic southern barbecue dish that features chicken that is cooked with barbecue sauce.
- Hash and Rice – This is a southern dish that features slow-cooked beef that is served over a bed of rice.
- Brunswick Stew – This is a hearty stew that is made with chicken, pork, and vegetables.
Gullah Cuisine:
- Gullah Red Rice – This is a rice dish that is made with tomatoes, onions, and spices and is a staple in Gullah cuisine.
- Hoppin’ John – This is a rice and bean dish that is often served on New Year’s Day for good luck.
- Frogmore Stew – This is a seafood boil that features shrimp, crab, and sausage, and is a staple in Gullah cuisine.
- Benne Wafers – These are thin, crispy cookies that are made with sesame seeds and are a staple in Gullah cuisine.
- Sweet Potato Pie – This is a classic southern dessert that is made with sweet potatoes and spices.
Sweets:
- Pecan Pie – This is a classic southern dessert that is made with pecans and a sweet filling.
- Banana Pudding – This is a classic southern dessert that is made with vanilla pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers.
- Peach Cobbler – This is a classic southern dessert that is made with fresh peaches and a sweet, crumbly topping.
- Red Velvet Cake – This is a classic southern cake that is made with cocoa powder and buttermilk and is often served with cream cheese frosting.
- Lady Baltimore Cake – This is a classic southern cake that is made with layers of white cake, fruit, and nuts.
Beverages:
- Sweet Tea – This is a classic southern beverage that is made with tea and sugar and is often served over ice.
- Cheerwine – This is a cherry-flavored soda that is a staple in the South.
- Palmetto Ale – This is a local beer that is brewed in South Carolina and is a favorite among locals.
- Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka – This is a vodka that is flavored with sweet tea and is a popular drink in the South.
- Bourbon – This is a classic southern spirit that is often served in cocktails like the mint julep.
These are just a few of the famous foods that South Carolina has to offer. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of southern comfort food, or have a sweet tooth, there is something for everyone in this vibrant state. So, next time you visit South Carolina, make sure to indulge in these delicious culinary delights and experience the flavors that make the state truly unique. Bon appétit!