Delaware's most iconic foods are a fascinating blend of beachside snacking and homestyle comfort. This is probably why many dishes strike newcomers as so unusual – because on one side, you've got the southern farmland and, alternatively, you have sand and sun. That's what makes Delaware a unique state, in general, and it is meals are extra time of this diversity.
When you've got a sandwich that tastes just like Thanksgiving dinner and dumplings that are delicious yet elusive, it's a cuisine worth trying. When you are in Delaware, be sure to cross these plates off your list.
Capriotti's
Capriotti's is an iconic place to eat in Delaware, generally, but when you're there, you have to try the Bobbie. This sandwich combines the very best of every dish from Thanksgiving and turns it into one huge delight of the hoagie, filled with stuffing, turkey, and cranberry sauce. The mixture is divine and also the flavor is on-point, as well as if Thanksgiving may be the furthest thing out of your mind at that time, it's a comfort. When it comes to holiday-themed sandwiches done correctly, Capriotti's is serving up some serious joy.
Blue Crabs
Typically, blue crabs are related to Maryland consider they're both so near the coast shoreline, Delaware is also serving up its great amount. They can usually be found around the east coast of Delaware in one of two ways: steamed and seasoned, complete with a newspaper-covered table to consume them at, or as crab cakes. If you have the chance, use them both – there's something supple and decadent about Delaware Bay-caught crabs using the perfect amount of seasoning, and they are buttery and tender in crab cakes.
'Boardwalk' Fries
There's no arguing that one – the fries from Thrasher's Fries are to be eaten with malt vinegar, not ketchup. There is something about eating hot, salty fries while walking along Delaware's boardwalks that's so satisfying. If this doesn't scream summer tradition only then do we have no idea exactly what does. If you're looking for the perfect snack to consume while taking in those beach vibes, here it is.
Salt Water Taffy
Specifically, the saltwater taffy from Dolles. This shop is iconic and while they do offer other candy, the taffy is legendary as well as one thing that put it on the map. You'll recognize this shop anywhere because of the sign that likely hasn't changed since Dolles first opened. Taffy may be unpleasant to consume with no toothpick nearby, but it's delicious the same.
Slippery Dumplings
Understandably, a plate of slippery dumplings is not the most engaging plate on the planet neither is it the most pleasant sounding. However, that shouldn't stop you from ordering it at all. This dish is very much like chicken and dumplings but a bit more simplified and without all the veggies, and, traditionally, the noodles and pulled chicken are served strictly with chicken gravy. It's comforting and wholesome and excellent for the chillier Delaware weather days.
Cream Chipped Beef
In this example, you just need to trust Delaware locals and order it. Cream chipped beef is what it may sound like – a cream beef dish. This is often served with a few kind of bread or roll and is common through the state as well as throughout the South. The great thing about cream chipped beef is that it isn't here to win any awards; it's just simple, comforting, flavorful, and down-home-good.
Goulash
This mixture of elbow macaroni (specifically, don't try substituting other things), hamburger, and sauces has turned into a Delaware tradition. While goulash is popular in some other southern states, chances are, you will not attend a household gathering within the state without this appearing in some form or another.
Peaches, Lemon Butter, And Lima Beans (Away from Once)
All of those situations are seasonal and fresh in Delaware and if you happen to be passing by a farmer's market or farmstand, they're three things that should be in your bag. Southern-grown peaches are a true specialty and may practically be a dessert on their own. Lemon butter, much like apple butter, is decadent, creamy, and oh-so-tangy, perfect for spooning over frozen treats or pancakes each morning. And, lastly, you won't get free from eating lima beans like a side dish – they're inherently Southern.
Scrapple
There happen to be many debates about scrapple's origins and also the kinds of scrapple out there. In Delaware, you're likely to be served fried slices from the pork and cornmeal mixture, its name was given through the pork 'scraps' that were traditionally accustomed to make it. Today, the dish is definitely an actual menu item and is fewer scraps, more intentional pork meat to make something salty, texturally pleasant, and breakfast-oriented.
