Food is one common thing that connects people beyond boundaries. There are enough reasons to visit Hilton head but Gullah Geechee cuisine is one at the top of the list. If you love exploring various foods, then this location is perfect to taste the ancient culture of Gullah served on a plate.
Who exactly are the Gullahs?
The Gullah community descended from West Africa. They established their community over the years and mostly in the rural parts of the low country. Since the community mostly lived in isolation, they were able to preserve all the aspects of their ancestors, which include their linguistics, food, and cultural heritage. This is what the tourists love to explore, and Gullah Geechee Cuisine is one of the most important.
Gullah vegetables are not overcooked!
They do not overcook the vegetables and beans; most of the food is stewed down and not overcooked. Some of the known chefs use braising so that the vegetables don’t lose their flavor and texture. The known dishes in Gullah traditions include vegetables and they are mostly tender and creamy.
Okra is supremely important
Okra soup is one of the most important dishes for the Gullah people; consider it as a Gumbo for the community. The Okra soup is popular and it uses tomato-based gravy added with some seasonal vegetables and meat like beef or pork. There are various ways to cook an Okra soup and the Gullah community loves them all.
There's diversity with the grains
Rice is considered a household staple for the Gullah people; they usually cook it with shrimp paste, red rice, and onion and garlic sautéed together. This dish is extremely flavorful, along with rice, some households also uses millet as a staple food.
What is a "soup bunch"?
If you visit the market in winter, you will find various soup bunch prepared with different ingredients. It is a popular item in the winter season. People assemble whatever root vegetable they get like red and green cabbage, collard green, hot pepper, turnip, ginger and onion, tomatoes, and more.
Oysters and grits are key
The Gullah people are popular in preparing the stew oyster in liquor with some added seasonal vegetables like bell pepper, onions, and bacon. They cook this dish carefully just until the oysters are warm.
Desserts such as peanut cake and monkey bread are not to be missed
When in Hilton Head, do not miss the peanut cake, which is more like a cookie than bread. If you have a sweet tooth, then you are going to love the sweet monkey bread prepared with coconut and molasses. Both the sweet dish is served in Gullah Feast.
Gullah Geechee food is a must to try when you visit Hilton head. Most people plan to explore the Gullah Geechee Culture along with their trip and that is an amazing idea. You can get in touch with Gullah Heritage Trail Tours or visit http://gullaheritage.com for more details about the Gullah Geechee Cuisine. You can also dial them at (843)681-7066 to speak to them directly.
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