10 Food Dishes That Are Absolute Symbols of South Carolina

South Carolina is a beautiful state with unique scenery, history, and some of the best food in the southern United States. From classic barbecue to the iconic Lowcountry boil, you can’t go wrong with the food served in the Palmetto state. While fitting every possible bucket list item into one trip is difficult, eating is still necessary during your travels. As you build your southern itinerary, don’t forget to include the food dishes that are absolute symbols of South Carolina. 

1. Frogmore Stew

Frogmore Stew, also known as a Lowcountry boil, is one of the food dishes that are absolute symbols of South Carolina. A seasoned compilation of boiled shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, Frogmore Stew is a must-have meal during any trip to the South. If your food is boiled in beer, that is when it is most authentic.

2. Peaches

While Georgia peaches may have risen to fame, the peach is the official South Carolina state fruit. The state is famous for delicious peach dishes including cobbler, jam, and even wine. If peaches are a personal favorite, plan your South Carolina trip during the summer peach season.

3. South Carolina BBQ

Many people don’t know that South Carolina is considered the “Birthplace of Barbecue.” While the United States is home to numerous states with barbecue skills, South Carolina is particularly proud of its pork. Pitmasters go head-to-head to see who can create the juiciest, wood-fired meat. And don’t forget the sauce! South Carolina is famous for its unique sauces. From mustard-based to vinegar-based barbecue sauces, it’s hard to find one you won’t love.

4. Boiled Peanuts

Boiled peanuts are one of the food dishes that are symbols of South Carolina. Dating back to the early 1800s, the boiling peanuts technique was passed down to generations to follow. Today, they are a favorite local snack and easy to find at local markets or a roadside stand.

5. Chicken Bog

A staple dinner for many South Carolina natives, chicken bog is a traditional option for a quick, inexpensive dinner. To recreate this dish, boil a whole chicken and add rice to the fresh stock. Mix it up with your favorite seasoning, sausage, and vegetables for a simple meal.

6. Shrimp and Grits

When people think about Southern cuisine, shrimp and grits are some of the first meals that come to mind. Now a popular dish to serve throughout the United States, shrimp and grits became famous in Charleston, SC. The first known recipe dates back to 1950.

7. Turtle Soup

Also known as terrapin soup, turtle soup became a traditional meal in Charleston, SC. While the dish has Chinese roots, it became a popular meal in South Carolina due to the abundance of turtles that lived in rice fields.

8. Sweet Tea

A southern staple, sweet tea is a beloved beverage for both locals and visitors in South Carolina. In fact, in 1995, sweet tea was declared the official state hospitality beverage. There is even a Sweet Tea Trail in Summerville, SC, for visitors to enjoy during their trip to the South.

8. Pimiento Cheese

Cheddar spread, mayonnaise, and pimientos create the perfect southern snack called pimiento cheese. Affectionately referred to as the “pâté of the South,” pimiento cheese became a southern staple in the mid-20th century. Today, it is served with crackers, crudites, or as a delicious sandwich spread.

9. Hush Puppies

Who knew that deep-fried cornmeal is such a delicious treat? Hush puppies are a quick, easy side dish that South Carolina locals enjoy with their meals. It’s not uncommon to see this dish at fairs, roadside stands, or local potlucks served with the perfect dipping sauce.

10. Lady Baltimore Cake

The Lady Baltimore Cake is a South Carolina staple at local events and family gatherings. Created by the women who ran Charleston’s Lady Baltimore Tea Room, the sweet treat is a South Carolina favorite. The layered cake contains dried fruit, nuts, and a marshmallow-like frosting.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Ray Tan/iStock via Getty Images