These 11 Iconic Foods In South Carolina Will Have Your Mouth Watering

South Carolinians love our food, don't we? And not just any food, although some of us can be pretty adventurous in trying new things. But it's the staples, the stuff we grew up on, that make dining not only an activity aimed at replenishing our body's fuel supply, but also a subliminal walk down memory lane.

Here are some foods South Carolina is known for, and if you grew up in the Palmetto State, some of these dishes may bring back memories. Many of us still reach for these cherished favorites as often as we can.

1. South Carolina BBQ

If there's one thing that still divides the Carolinas, it's BBQ sauce. South Carolina's is better - of course. If you ever find yourself in the tiny town of Gilbert, be sure to swing by Price's, a legendary BBQ restaurant in South Carolina.

2. Shrimp & Grits

This Lowcountry menu item is always in demand in the Palmetto State.

3. Oysters

During cold weather months, oysters provide an excuse to get together with friends and binge on this in-season shellfish. Whether you like yours raw or steamed, oysters are amazing either way. South Carolina's Oyster Festival is an annual celebration of all-things oyster. In fact, it's the world's largest oyster festival!

4. Collard Greens

How do you season YOUR collard greens? Everyone has their own method, and usually, it's a family recipe that's been passed down from generation to generation. Fun fact, did you know that collard greens are the official South Carolina state food?

5. Frogmore Stew

Here's one you probably wish you'd make more often. And why not? It's easy, fun, not terribly expensive, and a staple as far as South Carolina cuisine is concerned.

6. Boiled Peanuts

Be honest. How many times have you made a u-turn to go back to get boiled peanuts in your life?

7. Grits

Grits aren't just a part of South Carolina cuisine, but southern cuisine in general. While shrimp and grits is the popular pair, grits are a breakfast staple. Crumble up some bacon and you've got yourself a hearty breakfast.

8. Liver Pudding

The Good News: If you're reading this and you're in South Carolina, then you're in one of only THREE states that get Neese's Liver Pudding. (The other two are NC and VA.)

9. Okra

Fried, steamed, or boiled in a soup...we don't care how this South Carolina food makes its way onto your plate. Okra is a mainstay in most parts of South Carolina.

10. Fresh Shrimp

All we can say is thank heavens for the shrimping industry and the folks who haul this in so we have great, fresh, LOCAL (to SC) shrimp on a regular basis!

11. Ham Hocks

Officially on the Wikipedia list of "Soul Foods," ham hocks are traditional fare from the barrier islands of South Carolina.

With so many great traditional foods in South Carolina, we're sure we've only scratched the surface with this list. What other "traditional" foods can you add to this list? Tell us in the comments or on our Facebook page.