The Resort Chef

Food that are Native to the High Country of North Carolina

Jul 13, 2023

The High Country of North Carolina is a region known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes and rich cultural heritage. One aspect of this heritage is the variety of foods that are native to the area. These foods have been passed down through generations and are a testament to the region's unique history and traditions.

Appalachian Cuisine

The High Country is part of the larger Appalachian region, which is known for its distinctive cuisine. Appalachian cuisine is a blend of traditions from various cultures, including Native American, European, and African. The cuisine is characterized by its use of simple, locally sourced ingredients and its emphasis on preserving food through canning, pickling, and smoking.

Wild Berries

The High Country is home to a variety of wild berries that are used in cooking and baking. These include blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Wild berries are often used to make jams, jellies, and pies, and they are also a popular ingredient in homemade ice cream.

Country Ham

Country ham is a staple of Southern cuisine, and the High Country is no exception. Country ham is a type of cured ham that is typically served sliced thin. It is often served with biscuits, grits, or red-eye gravy.

Local Produce

The High Country is home to a variety of farms and orchards that produce fresh, seasonal produce. Local farmers markets are a great place to find fresh fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, corn, and apples.

Tomatoes

The High Country is known for its delicious tomatoes, which are often used in salads, sauces, and sandwiches. The region's warm summers and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing tomatoes.

Apples

The High Country is also known for its apple orchards. Apples are harvested in the fall and are used to make a variety of dishes, including apple pie, apple cider, and apple butter.

Mountain Trout

The High Country is home to a variety of freshwater streams and rivers, which are home to mountain trout. Trout is a popular ingredient in many High Country dishes, including trout cakes, trout chowder, and trout almondine.

Craft Beer

The High Country is home to a variety of craft breweries, which produce a range of beers using locally sourced ingredients. These breweries often have taprooms where visitors can sample their beers and learn about the brewing process.

The High Country of North Carolina is a region rich in cultural heritage and culinary traditions. From wild berries to country ham to craft beer, the region's unique foods are a testament to its history and traditions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to sample some of the High Country's delicious cuisine. Indeed our region is chopped full of delicious local flavors that have been enjoyed by natives as well as visitors for centuries. I would also add sorghum as well as sumac as two staples as well. Don't be afraid to try new ingredients you are not familiar with.