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June 26.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover the Most Cherished Recipes Of June: A Taste of North Carolina

Delicious North Carolina recipes including potatoes, crab cake, and muffins.

The Culinary Favorites That Captured Hearts in June

Every month, we find ourselves reminiscing about the dishes that not only fill our bellies but also warm our hearts. This June, readers from all corners of North Carolina embraced flavors that celebrate our rich culinary heritage. From salty shores to hearty land fare, our state witnessed a delicious blend of taste that had everyone reaching for their spoons and forks.

1. Country-Fried Steak & Gravy: A Southern Staple

No dish evokes a sense of home quite like country-fried steak and gravy. Chef Lynn Wells has perfected this dish, which transforms simple ingredients into a crispy, comforting plate of joy. The golden crust, paired with a luxurious gravy, gets to the heart of Southern comfort food. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that harks back to family gatherings and Sunday dinners, bringing people together around the table.

2. Atlantic Beach Pie: The Sweet Surprise

Who would have thought that a piquant dessert created “almost by accident” would charm the entire state? This refreshing blend of citrus and creamy goodness exemplifies summer in North Carolina. The story of Atlantic Beach Pie is a testament to the creativity and perseverance of local chefs, turning unintentional innovations into menu staples that resonate with residents and visitors alike.

3. Perfect Oven-Baked Potatoes: Because Simplicity Wins

Sometimes, the best things are the simplest. Sheri Castle’s oven-baked potatoes are a nod to nostalgia and culinary tradition, inspired by fireside gatherings. Their crackly skin and fluffy interior make them a side dish that pairs well with practically anything. It’s a reminder that in a world of complicated recipes, basic can be beautiful.

4. Blueberry Streusel Muffins: Sweet and Delightful

Nothing says breakfast in the South quite like blueberry muffins with a touch of streusel on top. Lynn Wells’s recipe ensures that every mouthful bursts with juicy blueberries, making it an essential dish for brunch or as an afternoon snack. The nostalgic connection to berry-picking days adds an extra layer of fondness to this treat.

5. Cheerwine Coleslaw: A Local Twist

This isn’t just any coleslaw—it's Cheerwine coleslaw, a unique variation that embodies the flavors of North Carolina. Tossed in a tangy-sweet sauce, it brings vibrancy and contrast to many Southern meals. Its inclusion on the summer menu shows how local products can elevate classic recipes, bridging traditions with innovative flair. For those looking to explore, this dish serves as a great reminder of what makes our cuisine so special.

The Cultural Relevance of Food in North Carolina

North Carolina food tells stories. The dishes our readers cherished this June showcase not just taste but also tradition, community, and identity. Each recipe offers insight into our culture, highlighting the relationship that food has with the seasons, local farms, and historical influences. From road trips along food and wine trails to explorations of historic sites and scenic destinations, these culinary delights are invitations to embrace all that North Carolina has to offer.

Experience North Carolina's Culinary Landscape

Next time you find yourself wandering through the scenic landscapes of North Carolina or relaxing on its beautiful beaches, take a moment to savor the local flavors. Whether tasting Southern comfort food or indulging in innovative takes on classic dishes, there’s a culinary adventure waiting just around the corner. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience how food can connect us all, sharing tastes that resonate in both memory and flavor.

Join us in celebrating these culinary successes and uncover new recipes that may soon find their way into your own kitchen!

Explore NC

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Celebrate the New Year with a Refreshing and Delicious Mocktail

Update Effervescent Cheers: Discovering the Best Mocktails As the New Year approaches, many people engage in the timeless tradition of crafting sophisticated yet non-alcoholic beverages. This year, elevate your celebration with a refreshing Resolution Punch, designed to tantalize the taste buds while ensuring everyone has a fulfilling, alcohol-free experience. This delightful concoction combines a medley of vibrant flavors, perfect for gatherings of family and friends. Mixing Up the Magic: The Recipe That Delivers The key to our bubbly drink lies in its unique ingredients that create an upbeat and celebratory atmosphere. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe which serves around 30 guests: 1 (12-ounce) can of frozen orange juice concentrate 36 ounces of cold water 6 ounces of elderflower syrup 1 (64-ounce) carton of white grape juice 2 (750-milliter) bottles of nonalcoholic sparkling wine or cider, chilled 1 orange, sliced, for garnish 10-12 strawberries, halved, for garnish Ice, if desired Start by mixing the orange juice concentrate and water until fully blended. In a large punch bowl, combine the white grape juice, elderflower syrup, and sparkling beverage. A dash of garnishing with fresh citrus and strawberries will also give a feast for the senses, both visually and taste-wise. Why Mocktails Matter: Celebrating Alcohol-Free Choices As more people choose to enjoy a non-alcoholic lifestyle, particularly during significant celebrations, mocktails have emerged as a thoughtful inclusion in social events. Not only do they foster inclusivity, but they also cater to designated drivers and those opting out of alcohol for health reasons. The mocktail trend promotes a sense of community while maintaining a celebratory essence. Punching Above Your Weight: The Benefits of Non-Alcoholic Drinks One of the biggest advantages of serving mocktails, such as the Resolution Punch, is their ability to provide festive flavors without compromising health. Low in calories and high in fruit content, this drink choice encourages hydration while being a fantastic route for creative culinary exploration. Those looking to explore more non-alcoholic beverage ideas will be pleased to find similar recipes, such as the ginger ale and white grape juice mix found in fantastic New Year’s Eve celebrations. These recipes often include fruity components and fizzy elements that harmonize perfectly, creating anticipation for each delightful sip. Go Green: The Future of Celebratory Drinks In the coming years, many will likely seek more sustainability-focused choices in their beverage selections. Mocktails provide a bright avenue for incorporating organic ingredients and lessening sugar intake. The rise in local farmer's markets allows for the use of fresh seasonal fruit, making it easier than ever to create vibrant concoctions right at home. Conclusion: Cheers to a Fresh Start This season, let’s raise our glasses—filled with sparkling mocktails! The Resolution Punch stands not only as a delicious drink but as a representation of inclusivity and health. As we toast to the possibilities of the New Year, embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle can be refreshing, exciting, and a whole lot of fun! Don't just celebrate your resolutions; savor them. Taste the magic of mocktails this festive season!

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Discover Wilmington's Hidden Gem: Join Little Loaf Bakery's Bread-Making Classes

Update Wilmington's Culinary Treasure: The Art of Bread Making In the heart of Wilmington, among its charming cottages and vibrant neighborhoods, lies a hidden gem known as Little Loaf Bakery & Schoolhouse. Here, the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, turning every passerby into a potential baker. Julia Castellano, the bakery's owner and an expert in the art of bread making, runs classes that invite novices into the world of sourdough and beyond. The Magic of Sourdough Starters One of the bakery's stars is a lively sourdough starter affectionately named Sue. Known for its distinctive aroma, which some say resembles champagne, Sue has been nurtured and fed by Castellano over the years, becoming an iconic element of her bread-making process. Each student in Castellano's class receives a portion of Dough-P Jr., another exceptional starter that links back to her French mentor’s 161-year-old culture. It's not just bread they make; it's history and tradition rolled into boules. Embracing Culinary Heritage Julia Castellano's passion for baking is deeply rooted in her family history, where Sunday dinners were a feast for the senses and included breads and pastries from their Belgian and Italian heritage. She recalls how, as a child, she preferred the Food Network over Animal Planet, dedicating her dreams to chocolate and culinary delights. Her classes aren't just about mixing ingredients; they're a continuation of her family's legacy of love for food. More Than Just Classes: Community Building Through Bread The Little Loaf Bakery is more than a place to learn how to bake; it serves as a community hub where friendships are forged over shared dough and laughter. Castellano's approach combines technical skills with heartfelt connections, creating a warm environment that encourages participants to not only learn but also to bond. Class participants often leave with more than just bread; they carry memories and new friendships built through shared experience. A Destination for Food Lovers and Travelers For those exploring Wilmington, this bakery is a must-visit attraction. With its rich offerings and hands-on classes, it beckons food enthusiasts of all ages to delve into the world of baking. Whether you're a local or a tourist, participating in a class or simply indulging in one of their fresh-baked goods, visiting Little Loaf Bakery is an immersive experience that adds flavor to your journey. Upcoming Classes: Join the Fun! Little Loaf Bakery boasts a calendar filled with various baking classes, from sourdough basics to specialty cake decorating. Each class is designed to cultivate new skills and enhance confidence in the kitchen. If you're looking for that next delicious adventure, check out their schedule and book a spot before they fill up! As the holiday season approaches, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the sweetest gift of all—an experience in baking? By signing up for one of their classes, you'll bond with friends or family as you learn to create everything from crusty baguettes to delightful pastries.

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Snuggle Up: Exploring Cozy Reading Spots in North Carolina

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