12 Things You’ll Only Find At A Southern Grocery Store

Southern grocery stores are a treasure trove of unique flavors and products that reflect the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the American South. Shopping in one is an adventure, as you’re sure to discover items you won’t find in typical grocery aisles elsewhere.

From homemade delicacies to region-specific staples, these stores carry products that are as much about history as they are about taste. Exploring a Southern grocery store offers not only a feast for the palate but also a journey into the heart of Southern hospitality and tradition. Here are twelve distinctive items you’ll encounter.

1. Boiled Peanuts

Boiled peanuts are a beloved Southern snack, often sold roadside, embodying tradition and flavor. Cooked in salty water until soft, these legumes are a staple at Southern gatherings and tailgate parties. Enjoying them is an experience, as you crack open each shell to reveal the tender, flavorful peanuts inside. This snack is best enjoyed fresh, warm, and slightly salty, making them a comforting treat. While they may be an acquired taste for newcomers, for Southerners, they’re a nostalgic reminder of home and simpler times. Don’t forget to keep a napkin handy as they can be delightfully messy.

2. Cheerwine

Cheerwine, the cherry-flavored soda, is a Southern classic. Originating from North Carolina, this beverage is celebrated for its unique taste and effervescent charm. Its deep red color and cherry flavor make it stand out on the shelves. With a legacy spanning over a century, popping open a bottle of Cheerwine is like uncapping a bit of Southern history. Often paired with barbecues or used in dessert recipes, this soda is versatile. Whether sipped ice-cold on a sweltering day or mixed into a sweet treat, Cheerwine remains a beloved Southern staple.

3. MoonPies

MoonPies, a delightful combination of marshmallow and graham cracker dipped in chocolate, are a Southern favorite. Originating over a century ago, this confection has withstood the test of time. MoonPies evoke nostalgia, reminding many of childhood picnics and family gatherings. Often enjoyed with an RC Cola, they form a duo that’s time-honored in the South. The soft, chewy texture combined with the sweet, chocolatey coating makes MoonPies irresistible. Perfect for a quick treat or dessert, these little pies of joy offer a taste of Southern tradition in every bite.

4. Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese, often dubbed the “caviar of the South,” is a spread that combines cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. This savory delight is versatile, loved for its creamy texture and tangy taste. It’s a quintessential party dish, served with crackers or as a sandwich filling. Southern grocery stores often offer homemade versions, each with its secret touch, making each taste unique. Whether used as a dip or a topping for burgers, pimento cheese brings a burst of flavor. This beloved dish is a culinary ambassador of Southern hospitality in every creamy bite.

5. Country Ham

Country ham, dry-cured and aged to perfection, is a Southern delicacy. Known for its salty, intense flavor, it’s often served with biscuits or used in hearty breakfasts. This cured meat is a testament to Southern culinary traditions, requiring time and patience to achieve its distinct taste. The aging process imparts a depth of flavor, making it a cherished item in Southern homes. Whether enjoyed as part of a festive meal or a simple breakfast, country ham offers a slice of Southern heritage. Each bite tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

6. Collard Greens

Collard greens, simmered to tenderness with ham hocks, are a staple in Southern cuisine. These leafy greens are rich in flavor and nutrients, often appearing at Sunday dinners and holiday feasts. Cooking collard greens is a labor of love, requiring slow simmering to achieve the desired softness. The addition of ham or bacon infuses them with a savory depth. In Southern households, collard greens symbolize comfort and tradition. Whether served as a side dish or part of a larger meal, they are a beloved reminder of home-cooked goodness and Southern warmth.

7. Grits

Grits, a Southern breakfast staple, are made from stone-ground corn and known for their creamy texture. Often served with butter, cheese, or shrimp, they are versatile and filling. Cooking grits to perfection requires patience, as they need slow cooking to develop their rich flavor. In Southern culture, sharing a bowl of grits is akin to sharing a piece of hospitality and comfort. These humble, yet hearty, grains are a culinary canvas, ready to be dressed up or enjoyed simply. Whether part of a breakfast spread or a standalone dish, grits embody Southern culinary tradition.

8. Vidalia Onions

Vidalia onions are renowned for their sweet, mild flavor, a result of the unique soil and climate of Vidalia, Georgia. These onions are a prized ingredient, often used in salads, sandwiches, and relishes. Their sweetness makes them stand out among other types, offering a delicate flavor that enhances many Southern dishes. Harvested in spring and early summer, Vidalia onions are a seasonal treat, eagerly anticipated by cooks across the South. Whether used raw or cooked, they bring a touch of Southern sunshine to any meal. Their versatility and distinct taste make them a kitchen favorite.

9. RC Cola

RC Cola holds a special place in Southern hearts, offering a taste of nostalgia with each sip. This cola is known for its robust, refreshing flavor, distinct from more mainstream soda brands. Often paired with MoonPies, it forms a classic Southern treat. The history of RC Cola is intertwined with Southern culture, making it more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of simpler times. Whether enjoyed ice-cold on a hot day or shared at a family gathering, RC Cola embodies Southern charm and refreshment. It’s a fizzy reminder of carefree days and community ties.

10. Pickled Okra

Pickled okra is a tangy, crunchy snack that’s uniquely Southern. Preserved in a vinegar brine, these pods offer a burst of flavor with every bite. Pickling transforms the okra, giving it a delightful crispness and tang. Served as a side dish or a cocktail garnish, pickled okra is versatile. Its unique texture and taste make it a conversation starter at Southern gatherings. Making your own pickled okra is a common practice, allowing for customization of flavors. This snack adds a zesty twist to any meal, celebrating Southern ingenuity and culinary creativity.

11. Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is synonymous with Southern hospitality. This beverage, brewed strong and sweetened generously, is a staple at Southern tables. Served cold, often with a slice of lemon, it’s refreshing and comforting. Sweet tea is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural icon, symbolizing warmth and friendliness. Every family has its secret recipe, passed down through generations. Whether sipped at a family barbecue or enjoyed on a lazy afternoon, sweet tea brings people together. It’s a simple pleasure that embodies the spirit of the South, offering a sweet respite from the heat.

12. Benne Wafers

Benne wafers, thin and crispy cookies made from sesame seeds, are a Charleston specialty with roots in African culinary traditions. These wafers are not only delicious but are also a symbol of good luck. The nutty taste of sesame seeds paired with a hint of sweetness makes benne wafers a delightful treat. They are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Each bite of a benne wafer is a taste of history, offering a connection to the rich, multicultural heritage of the South. These cookies are a crispy, flavorful slice of Southern tradition.