FOOD NEWS
11 Iconic Foods That Started In North Carolina
BY KRISTEN KORNBLUTH
North Carolina Barbecue
The region’s BBQs come in two distinct styles: east and west. East North Carolina BBQ uses almost the whole pig and features a tangy, vinegar-based sauce.
In contrast, west North Carolina barbecue includes only the pork shoulder. The sauce is thicker, richer, and includes a tomato element (typically ketchup) combined with vinegar.
Cheerwine
Despite its name, Cheerwine is a soda, not a wine. This beloved, cherry-flavored drink was founded in 1917 in Salisbury, North Carolina, by businessman Lewis D. Peeler.
It was created amid the sugar-shortages of World War I, necessitating its lower-sugar formulation. The refreshing drink is celebrated at the annual Cheerwine Festival in Salisbury.
Livermush
Evolved from scrapple, a dish brought by 18th century German settlers, livermush is a North Carolinian delicacy made from pork liver, meat scraps, spices, and cornmeal.
It was especially popular during the Great Depression due to its affordability, high protein, and high calorie content. It's still a big part of the state's culinary history.
Texas Pete's Hot Sauce
Created by the T.W. Garner Food Company in 1929, this North Carolinian medium-heat sauce has been made in their factory in Winston-Salem, N.C., since 1942.
Texas Pete's Hot Sauce is a unique blend of peppery, vinegary, and tangy flavors. This versatile condiment features in barbecue food, breakfast, and even cocktails.
Pepsi
Initially named "Brad's Drink," Pepsi was created by pharmacist Caleb Bradham in 1893. The beverage’s unique flavor is derived from kola nuts and the pepsin enzyme.
The recipe also contains citric acid, giving it a refreshingly tart flavor that distinguishes it from other soft drinks like Coca-Cola. Brad's Drink was renamed Pepsi-Cola in 1898.