Discover Summer: Food Traditions
July 31– August 6
From the diversity of cuisines found across the state to Carolina-born traditions, food is an essential part of our lives and a defining element of our culture. This week we are taking a deep dive into North Carolina food traditions and history. During this week of our Discover Summer Challenge, we want to share 7 ways that you can learn about North Carolina’s food traditions!
- VISIT YOUR LOCAL FARMERS MARKET
The Farmer’s Market is a great place to find local produce and connect with your community. Visit to pick up in-season fruits and vegetables and to learn about local crafters and makers to support in your community. Markets can be found across the state. A quick internet search will lead you to your local market!
2. EAT & SHOP LOCAL
North Carolina has a vast cultural landscape full of small businesses and restaurant owners. From the bustling Triangle Area’s diverse eateries, breweries, and food trucks to Ashe County Cheese in West Jefferson. Start off this challenge with some research. Try googling “[name of your town or county] small businesses and restaurants” and see what comes up! Small business owners are hard-working and bring many different backgrounds, experiences, and cultures to what they do. Try to support businesses and shops outside of your comfort zone and remember to be respectful and open-minded when doing so!
3. DISCOVER NEW SWEET POTATO RECIPES
North Carolina Sweet Potatoes has over 200 different ways to prepare and serve sweet potatoes. Visit their recipe list and challenge yourself to prepare sweet potatoes in a new way. Want a bigger challenge? Try to prepare them a new way every day this week.
4. MAKE A MORAVIAN SUGAR CAKE
Moravian Sugar Cake is a traditional recipe usually made to celebrate the holidays. Watch this video of it being made and then give it try yourself with this recipe from Food.com!
5. DISCOVER TASTES BORN IN NORTH CAROLINA
Did you know that Krispy Kreme Donuts was founded in Winston-Salem in 1937? Or that Texas Pete hot sauce was born out of Winston the year prior? There’s also Pepsi-Cola, Cheerwine, and Bojangles! Can you find any more of your favorite foods or places to eat that have origins tied to North Carolina?
6. START A FIGHT: TOMATO OR VINEGAR?
Few questions will spark an argument faster in North Carolina. Opinions vary, but one thing is certain: North Carolina has the best barbecue! You can’t go wrong, so just cook it, sauce it, and eat it. Pat your full belly, happy in the knowledge that all the barbecue in the rest of the world is inferior. If any arguments over tomato vs. vinegar get too heated in your family, you may want to hit the road for some research with this barbecue tour of North Carolina.
7. START YOUR OWN VEGETABLE GARDEN
Growing your own plants and vegetables is a great way to discover and learn about the world around us. Start by planting summer fruits, vegetables, and herbs and watch them grow and produce over the next few months!
