Before moving to the South, I thought I had a pretty good grasp on American cuisine. But after settling into life here, I quickly realized there were plenty of delicious foods and drinks I had never encountered before. From seasonal seafood to regional snacks, Southern cuisine has been full of surprises. Here are some of my favorite food discoveries since moving to Alabama!
Crawfish: The Seasonal Southern Delicacy
If you’ve never had crawfish before, imagine a tiny lobster that you eat with your hands, seasoned to perfection with bold, spicy flavors. Some of the friendliest moments in the South happen at a crawfish boil, where people are willing to line up as they wait for the bugs and the sides to be ready to serve. There’s a method to the madness that includes sucking the head of the bug (or not) and twisting the tail to unvein it. It’s not pretty, but once you get a taste for it, it’s irresistible. Crawfish season typically runs from late winter through early summer, with peak availability in March and April. These freshwater crustaceans are cooked with corn, potatoes, sausage, and plenty of Cajun spices and served by the pound at very reasonable prices.
It’s not hard to make this delicious treat at home either! They can often be found frozen in supermarkets and the seasoning is readily available.
<— This is a crawfish boil seasoning favorite
Grits: The Ultimate Southern Comfort Food
I had heard of grits before, but I never really knew what they were. Turns out, they’re made from ground corn and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether topped with butter and salt for breakfast or paired with shrimp for a savory dinner, grits are a staple in the South. The creamy texture and versatility quickly made me a fan!
<— Easiest way to try them!
Boiled Peanuts: Not Just Regular Peanuts Boiled!
At first, I was skeptical—how could boiling peanuts make them better? But after trying my first cup of hot, salty boiled peanuts at a bar, I was hooked. You can also find it at most gas stations, which by the way, often serve good food!
These aren’t just regular peanuts thrown in water; they’re raw peanuts that get slow-boiled in salty brine until they become soft, almost like a bean. They have a rich, earthy flavor that’s totally unique. Locals say that part of the art of eating boiled peanuts is popping one in your mouth and opening it with your tongue without having to touch it.
Jalapeño Conecuh Kolaches: A Southern Twist on a Texas Favorite
Kolaches originated from Czech immigrants in Texas, but I had never heard of them until moving to Alabama. Traditionally, they are pastries filled with fruit or sausage, but here, they get a special twist with Conecuh sausage—a locally beloved smoked sausage from Alabama. Add in jalapeños for a spicy kick, and you have an irresistible, savory pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack and available at most donut shops.
Boudin Balls: A Louisiana Specialty
Boudin balls are a delicious Southern treat that take the flavors of traditional boudin sausage—pork, rice, and Cajun seasonings—and turn them into bite-sized, deep-fried perfection. Unlike boudin sausage, which is served in a casing, boudin balls are rolled, breaded, and fried until golden brown. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, and often served with a side of remoulade or spicy mustard for dipping. They’re irresistible bar food!
Yuengling: A Beer I’d Never Seen Before Alabama
Yuengling is America’s oldest brewery, but somehow, I never saw it in stores until I moved South. Originally from Pennsylvania, this beer is wildly popular in the Southeast. It’s a smooth, easy-to-drink lager that pairs well with just about any Southern meal, from barbecue to seafood.
<— Represent the oldest American brewery with some merch!
That’s it… for now. Moving to the South has been an eye-opening (and tastebud-pleasing) experience. These foods and drinks have quickly become some of my favorites, and I can’t imagine my life without them now! Have you tried any of these Southern specialties? Let me know in the comments!
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<— I knew King Cake as “Rosca de Reyes” in Los Angeles. But, yeah, how about King Cake!
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Tell about the south 