The Southern United States is known for its delicious comfort food with an often hearty, down-home flair that sets it apart from other culinary styles. The southern states’ long love affair with grilling and barbecuing is no exception, with grilling being a cornerstone of many southern traditions. Southern grilling recipes typically feature bold and unique flavors, whether cooked in a covered grill, open pit, or over an open flame.
From succulent pork and juicy steaks to fresh fish and seafood, southerners know how to bring out the bold and flavorful taste of their grilling recipes. When it comes to seasoning, use a Southern-style rub which typically includes a combination of garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a few other spices. To enhance the flavor of grilled meats, marinate overnight in a mixture of oil and onion juice, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar, or use any favorite blend of seasonings. Traditional flavors for grilled meats also include such items as molasses, jerk seasoning, and barbecue sauce.
Southern grilling recipes also feature a variety of vegetables. Whether cooked with a sprinkle of olive oil or in a delicious marinade of honey, garlic, and spices, grilled vegetables are always a hit. Try leafy greens like kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard on the grill, or go for heartier veggies like corn on the cob, asparagus spears, and even portobello mushrooms. Marinating the vegetables in a tangy citrus-based marinade such as lemon, lime juice, and olive oil will add an extra depth of flavor.
And of course, no grilling experience in the south is complete without a good spread of side dishes. Enjoy cornbread, fresh coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, hush puppies, and even a sweet-tart watermelon salad. Baked beans are also popular side dishes, as they pair well with grilled meats.
Whether you’re cooking over an open flame or in a covered grill, southern recipes know how to bring out the best in bold and unique flavors. From juicy steaks and succulent pork to fresh fish and flavorful vegetables, southern grilling recipes are sure to please. Enjoy an array of side dishes and don’t forget to top it off with plenty of sweet-tart southern treats! Enjoy all that the south has to offer with your own grilling recipes!
Enjoy recreating some of the south’s most iconic flavors with these southern recipes for the grill. Fire up the grill and get ready for some southern-style fun!