Exploring Virginia Beach: Local Cuisine and Traditional Recipes
Exploring Virginia Beach: Local Cuisine and Traditional Recipes
Introduction to Virginia Beach Cuisine
Virginia Beach is a coastal city known for its vibrant food scene that offers a delicious mix of traditional Southern dishes, fresh seafood, and global flavors. The cuisine in Virginia Beach reflects the city's rich history and diverse cultural influences.
Local Ingredients and Flavors
The culinary scene in Virginia Beach is shaped by the abundance of fresh, local ingredients available in the region. From succulent Chesapeake Bay blue crabs to sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, local produce plays a prominent role in many dishes. The city's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean also means that seafood features prominently on menus, with dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried oysters being local favorites.
Popular Dishes and Recipes
- Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes: A signature dish made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Peanut Soup: A creamy soup made with peanuts, broth, and cream, often served with ham.
- Surf and Turf: A classic dish featuring a combination of seafood and steak, typically served with a side of potatoes or vegetables.
- Virginia Ham Biscuits: Buttery biscuits filled with thinly sliced Virginia ham, a popular snack or appetizer.
Local Dining Experiences
When visiting Virginia Beach, be sure to explore the local dining scene to sample traditional dishes and innovative creations. Here are some recommended restaurants and kitchens to try:
1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
Waterman's Surfside Grille is a popular beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes and stunning ocean views. Don't miss the crab cakes and fish tacos!
2. The Back Deck
The Back Deck offers a casual dining experience with a focus on Southern comfort food. Try their shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes for a taste of classic Virginia cuisine.
3. Citrus Breakfast & Lunch
Citrus is a beloved breakfast spot in Virginia Beach, known for its creative dishes and fresh-squeezed juices. Be sure to try their signature citrus pancakes!
Traditional Recipes
Want to bring a taste of Virginia Beach into your own kitchen? Here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:
Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes
To make authentic Chesapeake Bay crab cakes, combine lump crab meat with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Form into patties and pan-fry until golden brown.
Peanut Soup
To make classic Virginia peanut soup, sauté onions and celery in butter, then add chicken broth, peanut butter, and cream. Simmer until creamy and smooth, then garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.