Are you planning a visit to the charming state of Delaware? If so, you’ll want to be sure to experience its rich culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re likely curious about what foods are the most beloved by Delawareans. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Delaware’s most popular cuisine.
From mouthwatering seafood dishes to decadent desserts, Delaware’s food scene has something for everyone. But with so many delicious options to choose from, how do you know where to start? That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll share our top picks for the best Delaware dishes and where to find them.
But our guide doesn’t stop there. We’ll also dive into the history behind Delaware’s most beloved cuisine and show you how to make these dishes at home. And for an insider’s perspective, we’ll even share some tips and recommendations from locals on where to explore Delaware’s food scene.
So whether you’re a foodie or just looking to experience the best of Delaware, keep reading for the ultimate guide to the state’s most popular food!
Discover the Top Picks for Delaware Cuisine
If you’re looking for the best flavors of Delaware, then you’re in the right place. Delaware is a small state with a big appetite, and its local cuisine reflects its diverse cultural heritage. From traditional seafood to farm-fresh produce and craft beer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular dishes in Delaware is the crab cake. Made with fresh Chesapeake Bay crab meat, this savory treat is often served with a side of tartar sauce and lemon wedges. Another local favorite is the soft-shell crab, which is dipped in batter and fried to perfection.
For those who prefer something a little more hearty, Delaware is also known for its chicken. The state is home to several chicken farms, and this protein is a staple of many Delawarean dishes. Whether you prefer it fried, grilled, or roasted, Delaware chicken is sure to satisfy your appetite.
If you have a sweet tooth, then you must try peach pie. Delaware is known for its delicious peaches, which are used to make this delectable dessert. The pie is made with fresh peaches, sugar, and a flaky crust, and is often served warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Finally, no visit to Delaware would be complete without trying some dogfish head beer. This popular brewery, located in Milton, Delaware, is known for its innovative craft beers and unique flavors. From the classic 60 Minute IPA to the fruity SeaQuench Ale, there’s a dogfish head beer for every taste preference.
With so many delicious options to choose from, it’s no wonder why Delaware cuisine is so highly regarded. Keep reading to learn more about where to find the best Delaware dishes and how to make them at home!
Delaware’s Famous Crab Cakes
Freshly Caught: The best crab cakes are made from fresh, local crab meat. Delaware’s crab industry is famous for its high-quality blue crabs, making it the perfect place to indulge in this delicacy.
Traditional Recipe: Delaware’s famous crab cakes are made with a blend of jumbo lump and backfin crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and a mix of other ingredients that vary depending on the chef’s recipe. The result is a delicious and hearty dish that’s been passed down for generations.
Creative Twists: While the traditional recipe is a fan favorite, some restaurants and chefs have put their own unique spin on Delaware’s famous crab cakes. From adding unexpected ingredients like avocado or bacon to using different spices and seasonings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this classic dish with a twist.
Pairings: Delaware’s famous crab cakes are often served with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with a variety of sauces, from traditional tartar sauce to a spicy aioli or a sweet and tangy remoulade.
Delaware’s famous crab cakes are a must-try for any seafood lover. Whether you’re enjoying them at a local restaurant or making them at home, the fresh crab meat, traditional recipe, and creative twists make this dish a true Delaware favorite.
Where to Find the Best Delaware Dishes
Looking to experience the best cuisine Delaware has to offer? Look no further than Wilmington’s Riverfront, a bustling area home to a diverse selection of restaurants offering everything from upscale seafood to traditional comfort food. For seafood lovers, Henlopen City Oyster House in Rehoboth Beach is a must-visit destination with its famous oysters and other fresh seafood options.
For a unique dining experience, check out Dogfish Head Brewpub in Rehoboth Beach, where you can enjoy a beer flight and delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, Harry’s Savoy Grill in North Wilmington offers classic American fare with a modern twist, including their famous prime rib and crab cakes.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, you can find it in Delaware. From farm-to-table restaurants to casual diners, there are plenty of options to satisfy any foodie’s appetite.
Top-rated Seafood Restaurants in Delaware
- The Blue Crab Grill – Located in Newark, this restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including their famous crab cakes.
- Bethany Blues BBQ Pit – With two locations in Delaware, this BBQ joint also serves up some of the best seafood around, including fried oysters and crab dip.
- Catch 54 – This Fenwick Island restaurant has a stunning view of the water and serves up delicious seafood dishes, such as their jumbo lump crab cakes and seared sea scallops.
- The Cultured Pearl – Located in Rehoboth Beach, this Asian-inspired restaurant serves up delicious sushi rolls and seafood dishes like miso-glazed Chilean sea bass.
If you’re in Delaware and looking for the best seafood around, these top-rated restaurants are definitely worth checking out. From fresh crab cakes to mouth-watering scallops, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
Hidden Gems for Local Delaware Cuisine
If you’re looking to experience the local food scene in Delaware, you can’t miss these hidden gems:
- Deerfield: A charming restaurant located in Newark, known for their farm-to-table cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
- Piccolina Toscana: This Wilmington favorite offers a unique fusion of Italian and American flavors with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
- The Backyard: Tucked away in Milton, this outdoor eatery is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Broadkill River.
- Goolee’s Grille: A hidden gem in Rehoboth Beach, serving up delicious Jamaican cuisine that will transport you straight to the Caribbean.
Don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path and discover these delicious and unique dining experiences in Delaware.
History of Delaware’s Most Popular Food
Delaware’s most popular food has a long and fascinating history. Crab cakes, for instance, were created by Delawareans in the early 20th century. These cakes became increasingly popular in the 1930s, and today, they’re a staple in many restaurants across the state.
Another Delaware favorite is scrapple, a breakfast meat made of pork scraps and cornmeal. Scrapple has been a Delaware staple since colonial times, and it’s still widely consumed today.
Delaware’s most famous beverage is undoubtedly Dogfish Head beer, which was founded in 199The brewery quickly gained national attention for its unique brews and has since become one of the most popular craft beer brands in the country.
The Origins of Scrapple in Delaware
Scrapple is a popular breakfast meat that has been a staple of Delaware cuisine for centuries. The origins of scrapple can be traced back to the early German settlers in Pennsylvania and Delaware. The settlers used all parts of the pig, including the head, heart, and liver, to make a type of sausage that they called “panhas.”
Over time, the recipe for panhas evolved, and it eventually became known as scrapple. Today, scrapple is made by boiling pork scraps, seasoning the meat with herbs and spices, and then mixing it with cornmeal and flour to create a thick, porridge-like mixture. The mixture is then poured into loaf pans, allowed to cool, and sliced into thin pieces for frying.
Scrapple is typically served for breakfast, often accompanied by eggs and toast. Many Delawareans enjoy scrapple as a nostalgic reminder of their childhood, as it was a popular breakfast food for many families in the state. Today, there are many variations of the traditional scrapple recipe, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
How to Make Delaware’s Most Popular Food at Home
If you’re a foodie looking to recreate some of Delaware’s iconic dishes, you’re in luck! Many of these dishes can be made in your own kitchen with a little bit of know-how.
To make the perfect crab cake, you’ll need fresh, high-quality crab meat, along with a mixture of breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and seasonings. Mix the ingredients together gently, form the mixture into patties, and fry them in a skillet until golden brown.
If you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, try making some scrapple. This classic Delaware dish is made from pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices. Cook the ingredients together, shape the mixture into a loaf, and slice it up for frying.
For a sweet treat, try making some peach cobbler. This dessert is a Delaware favorite, made with fresh, juicy peaches, sugar, and a buttery, crumbly topping. Bake the cobbler in the oven until the peaches are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Finally, if you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup, try making some chicken and dumplings. This classic dish is made with tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly evening.
With these recipes, you can bring the flavors of Delaware right into your own home. Whether you’re a Delaware native or just a food lover looking to try something new, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds.
Homemade Crab Cakes Recipe
If you’re a fan of the famous crab cakes from Delaware, why not try making them at home? Here’s a simple recipe that you can follow:
- Ingredients: 1 pound fresh lump crabmeat, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions, 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper, 1 cup fresh bread crumbs, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, lemon wedges for serving.
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, scallions, and red pepper.
- Gently fold in the crabmeat and bread crumbs until just combined.
- Form the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 3/4 inch thick.
- Melt butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the crab cakes and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crab cakes are cooked through.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges.
This recipe is perfect for a weekend dinner party or a special occasion. Enjoy!
Classic Recipe for Delaware’s Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that will warm you up on a chilly day, try making Delaware’s classic dish, Creamy Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck with friends.
To make this dish, you will need:
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Vegetables: 2 stalks of celery, 2 carrots, and 1 onion, all chopped
- Chicken broth: 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- Herbs: 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1 teaspoon of rosemary
- Dumplings: 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of butter, and 1 cup of milk
- Cream: 1/2 cup of heavy cream
To make the dish, start by cooking the chicken in a large pot until it is browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the vegetables until they are tender. Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
While the broth is simmering, make the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until the dough forms. Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
After the dumplings have cooked, remove them from the pot and set them aside. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into small pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Add the dumplings back to the pot and serve hot.
Exploring Delaware’s Food Scene: A Local Perspective
Delaware’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Italy, Greece, China, and beyond. Local residents take pride in their diverse cuisine, and visitors can experience everything from classic American fare to international specialties.
One of the best ways to explore Delaware’s food scene is through its farmer’s markets. These markets offer a range of fresh, locally grown produce and products, including seafood, meats, cheese, and baked goods. They also provide a great opportunity to meet local vendors and learn about their cooking traditions.
For a truly immersive experience, visitors can also try a food tour of Delaware. These tours offer a guided exploration of the state’s culinary hotspots, with stops at local restaurants, breweries, and other food-related attractions.
Delaware’s Best Food Festivals and Events
If you’re a foodie looking for some fun events to attend in Delaware, you won’t be disappointed! From seafood festivals to beer fests, there’s something for everyone.
Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler’s Festival: This festival, held in Rehoboth Beach every October, celebrates the local culture with live music, crafts, and food.
Delaware Burger Battle: This event brings together the state’s top burger chefs to compete for the title of “Best Burger.” The event also features live music and craft beer.
Wilmington Beer Week: This week-long celebration of craft beer includes tastings, dinners, and other events held throughout the city. It’s a great way to experience the local beer scene.
| Event Name | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler’s Festival | October | Rehoboth Beach |
| Delaware Burger Battle | August | Wilmington |
| Wilmington Beer Week | April | Wilmington |
| Dover Days Festival | May | Dover |
These are just a few of the many food festivals and events that take place in Delaware throughout the year. Check out the local event calendar to find out more!
Top Food Trucks in Delaware
Food trucks have been growing in popularity in Delaware, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of cuisines on the go. Here are some of the top food trucks in the state:
| Food Truck | Cuisine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Cajun-Sno | Cajun and Creole | Wilmington |
| The Plum Pit | BBQ and Southern Comfort | Newark |
| Kapow Food Truck | Asian Fusion | Dover |
| Taco Reho | Mexican | Rehoboth Beach |
Cajun-Sno is a favorite among locals for its spicy and flavorful dishes, including gumbo and jambalaya. The Plum Pit is known for its delicious smoked meats and sides, such as mac and cheese and collard greens. Kapow Food Truck offers a unique blend of Asian flavors, with menu items like Korean BBQ tacos and Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches. And for those looking for some delicious Mexican fare, Taco Reho serves up tasty tacos and burritos with fresh ingredients.
A Foodie’s Guide to Delaware’s Farmers’ Markets
If you’re a foodie looking for fresh, locally-grown produce and artisanal products, Delaware’s farmers’ markets are a must-visit. Many markets operate throughout the year, offering everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to handmade bread and cheese.
Some of the most popular farmers’ markets in Delaware include the Wilmington Farmers Market, the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, and the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market. At these markets, you’ll find a wide variety of vendors selling everything from heirloom tomatoes to homemade jams and jellies.
In addition to fresh produce and homemade goods, many of Delaware’s farmers’ markets also feature food trucks and other food vendors, making them a great destination for a day of eating and exploring. So grab your reusable shopping bags and head to your local farmers’ market for a taste of the best that Delaware has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients of Delaware’s most popular food?
The most popular food in Delaware is a savory dish that features pork, cornmeal, and spices, among other ingredients. The combination of these ingredients gives the dish a unique flavor and texture that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
How is Delaware’s most popular food traditionally prepared?
Delaware’s most popular food is traditionally prepared by blending pork scraps with cornmeal, flour, and spices to create a thick, mushy mixture. The mixture is then shaped into a loaf and sliced before being pan-fried to give it a crispy exterior. The dish is often served with syrup, ketchup, or mustard.
Where can you find the best Delaware-style cuisine?
If you’re looking for the best Delaware-style cuisine, you can’t go wrong with visiting a local diner or restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Many restaurants in Delaware serve dishes like scrapple, chicken and dumplings, and seafood specialties that are sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
Is Delaware’s most popular food healthy?
While Delaware’s most popular food is certainly tasty, it is not typically considered a healthy choice due to its high fat and calorie content. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options for Delaware’s most popular food?
Unfortunately, Delaware’s most popular food is not typically vegetarian or vegan-friendly, as it is traditionally made with pork. However, some restaurants and chefs have experimented with vegetarian and vegan versions of the dish using plant-based ingredients like mushrooms and tofu.