15 Southern Delicacies That Define America's Finest Cuisine

Here’s an ideal situation: You twirl around with a blindfold on and put your finger down on a map of the U.S. The spot where you touch determines where you’ll dine for seven days straight. Honestly speaking, deep down inside, I'm really wishing to end up somewhere delightful. anywhere in the American South , and not only for Their numerous (numerous!) barbecue varieties alone .

The South boasts numerous other culinary delights that originate from different areas (apologies to those from the respective regions). Midwest’s beautiful casseroles ) trembling with fear. And let's not forget about my own Southern-but-not- truly - The southern homeland of Florida, known for its plethora of gator-inspired cuisine. Below are some of the area's top dishes that contribute to making the American South one of the tastiest places in the U.S.

Pineapple Fluff

In simple terms, Southerners behave this way: interesting Items featuring fruit, where one stands out: pineapple fluff. This treat truly matches its title since it consists of maximum proportion blends of pineapple components such as canned pineapple, pineapple Jell-O, and pineapple juice combined with fluffy elements like Cool Whip, cream cheese, marshmallows, and shredded coconut. It might just qualify as the ideal dish conceivable. Particularly delightful when savored, pie form .

Chowchow

Winning one of life's top accolades might just be receiving a jar of homemade chowchow from your Southern buddy. This present is truly timeless; chowchow is an iconic South Carolina pickle mixture consisting of green tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and cabbage, seasoned with essential pickling spices such as mustard seeds, celery salt, and turmeric. To put it simply, this tangy-sweet-condiment pairs wonderfully with nearly anything you can think of. especially hot dogs.

Sausage Balls

At our family gatherings during holidays, a large platter of sausage balls is an essential part. It has become so popular that there's actually rivalry over who makes them every year. These are quite simple to prepare. sausage balls You'll understand why when they combine a touch of pancake batter, crushed-up sage-infused sausage, shredded cheddar, and some freshly picked herbs. These ingredients will undoubtedly make them an annual must-have for you as well.

Boiled Peanuts

Having a lot of spicy, salty boiled peanuts On the journey to the beach or during a road trip through the South, this experience is essential. Combining peanuts still in their shells, water, seasonings, and time transforms this simple snack into something extraordinary. Pair it with a cold beer for the perfect Southern indulgence.

Chitlins

For some reason, numerous countries boast a significant custom involving the consumption of animal entrails and stomachs (think: tripe, saucisson, haggis), and this culinary practice also holds sway in the Southern regions through their fondness for chitlins (also known as chitterlings). This staple feature prominently within African American cuisine. soul food traditions , you may come across chitlins (cleaned pig intestines) prepared as stew with vinegar or coated and deep-fried.

Fried Bologna Sandwiches

One of the key culinary memories from my youth involves my mother preparing fried bologna sandwiches for every conceivable occasion. Need a midnight snack or something quick for breakfast? A fried bologna sandwich fits the bill. Running low on groceries? Yep, you guessed it—a fried bologna sandwich will do just fine. These sandwiches are quite popular throughout Southern eateries and ballparks alike, often served alongside a pile of chips and a crisp pickle on the side.

Snow Cream

Snow Cream is indeed a genuine Southern treat that you should experience before forming an opinion about it, particularly considering how uncommon snow can be in that area. It has won over numerous fans, including Reese Witherspoon Sure! It includes freshly fallen snow (yes, really!), cream, and whichever ice cream toppings you prefer. Simply put a bowl outdoors when it’s snowing, let enough snow gather, and start blending. My family enjoys adding Nesquik powder and/or chocolate syrup into the mix.

Hoecakes

Move over, pancakes. Hoecakes are stepping into the spotlight as the king of all fried batters. This beloved morning treat was favored by none other than George Washington himself. Made from a simple mixture of cornmeal battered and cooked generously in butter until they turn crispy at the edges—these delectable creations cry out for a drizzle of maple syrup on top.

Crawfish Boils

Whenever I serve a dish atop a layer of newspapers, that’s right up my alley, and this certainly applies to Southern cuisine as well. crawfish boil Packed with corn, potatoes, sausage, an abundance of spices, and heaps of crawfish, these boils put traditional lobster boils to shame.

Carolina Red Rice

A vital Lowcountry side dish from South Carolina, red rice is exactly what you hope to find at every significant family get-together. It’s often compared to dishes found in Nigeria. jollof rice , Carolina red rice is flavorful, tomato-infused, and perhaps most notably, includes a lot of bacon.

Hush Puppies

My uncle owned a seafood restaurant, so I grew up with that background. opinions on what a good hush puppy First of all, hush puppies are delightful little orbs made from cornmeal (an incredible beginning) that get deep-fried (genius idea), packed full of onions and herbs (simply perfect). In my book, they beat out cornbread any day of the week.

Pimento Cheese

Inquire of any person from the South about how they prepare their food. pimento cheese , and I'm sure you'll receive a multitude of varying responses. Preferences range from those who enjoy their version slightly sweet (thanks to Miracle Whip—I couldn't do it) to those who prefer an abundance of cheese at every turn, incorporating both cream cheese and cheddar, often enhanced with bits of pimento. It's not surprising this dish has earned itself the title of “the 'pâté' of the South.” Enjoy it alongside some crackers or tucked into a sandwich as you proudly extend your pinky finger.

Charleston Chewies

There’s another "chewy" treat you ought to know about: Charleston Chewies. These bars are packed with brown butter and pecans, making them similar to blondies but much more indulgent due to their rich ingredients. browned butter .

Brunswick Stew

After you’ve gone around gathering snow for snow cream, you’re going to want another Southern classic to warm you up. Look no further than Brunswick stew , a comforting chicken stew filled with corn, butter beans, tomatoes, and potatoes that makes an ideal meal for chilly winter evenings accompanied by a basket of biscuits .

Collard Greens

Have some extra smoked turkey or ham hocks? Don’t toss them out just yet! They have another destination: transforming into incredibly savory goodness. collard greens Some people might argue that the collard greens are the standout component of a ham dinner, and I wholeheartedly concur.