To tell the story of Lowcountry cuisine is to trace the progression of plantation-field-to-table fare through more than three hundred years of history. With emphasis placed on seasonal staples and flavors reflecting the Caribbean and African influences on the region's sea island heritage, the cuisine is the heart and soul of Charleston culture and holiday fare.
Shrimp and Grits is a quintessential Lowcountry recipe. Originally served as a hardy breakfast during the plantation era, contemporary interpretations of the dish are popular for both brunch and supper—and especially during festive holiday gatherings. Thanks to esteemed Chef Frank Lee of Slightly North of Broad, who shares his favorite shrimp and grits recipe, you can adopt this taste of Charleston as your own. Serves two.
Download Shrimp & Grits Recipe
Formal balls, a revered social ritual in the Lowcountry, traditionally take place at Christmastime, when the plantation aristocracy historically arrived in town for debutante season. The custom of presenting a signature punch dates back to the 1700s, and many of the recipes—Planter's Punch, Tradd Alley Punch and St. Cecilia Punch—remain the toast of contemporary parties. Vintage cocktails are in vogue, so why not offer a centuries-old libation to your guests this holiday season?
Download Historic St. Cecilia Punch Recipe
Versatile and tasty, the Neita's Vinaigrettes make great dipping sauces for crudité, marinades for poultry or seafood, salad dressing, sandwich condiment and much more. This line of locally made vinaigrettes contains no trans fats, cholesterol, sugar or sugar substitutes, making it a heart-healthy choice for holiday meals. Be sure to check out the recipe list when placing an online order.
www.neitasvinaigrettes.com
A collection of recipes compiled from cooking classes held at the Charleston Cooks kitchen store since it opened in 2004, the Taste of the Lowcountry compendium is ideal for the home chef interested in preparing Lowcountry cuisine. Pickled shrimp, okra soup, cheddar grit cakes, cowpea succotash and Carolina Gold Rice pudding (all recipes found in the book) would make a great, memorable holiday menu!
www.charlestoncooks.com
Miniature, hand painted marvels made from gourmet chocolate, the limited edition Nutcracker confections at Christopher Artisan Chocolatier-Patissier are almost too beautiful to consume. Crafted by a third generation French chocolatier who now calls Charleston home, the passion for quality and pure ingredients is evident in every bite.
www.christophechocolatier.com
We promise you will find something delicious among the tempting array of pastries, cakes, cookies and confections prepared daily by the kitchen staff at Bakehouse, where wholesome ingredients are used to create delectable preservative-free treats. Peppermint takes center stage during the holidays when the bakery pulls out its favorite Christmastime recipes to produce seasonal sweets. The Santa Mice cookies are always a hit!
www.bakehousecharleston.com
Made with an indubitable collection of premium ingredients that have been native to Lowcountry pantries for centuries, Charleston Mix is "The Bloody Mary Perfected." Available in Original or Bold & Spicy flavor, Charleston Mix Bloody Mary's are sure to put the wind in your sail. Charleston Mix is a certified South Carolina product and is currently available in South Carolina with regional distribution on the horizon.
www.charlestonmix.com
It is like a lollipop you can sink your teeth into, and Charlestonians are crazy about the Cakepops at Cupcake. In fact, everyone is crazy about Cupcake, which has been featured on Martha Stewart Radio, The Ellen Show website and in USA Today. See what the buzz is all about but be warned: it's difficult to stop at just one Cakepop!
www.freshcupcakes.com
A love affair with tea has been brewing since colonists imported the daily ritual from Mother England. Charlestonians drink it all day long—hot, iced, sweetened or not—and everyone has a preference when it comes to preparation. There is one thing most agree upon—local pride for Charleston Tea Plantation, America's only tea garden. For a limited time every holiday season, the Charleston Tea Plantation produces American Classic MerriMint Tea, a refreshing blend of spearmint and green tea.
www.charlestonteaplantation.com