Deb Freeman
Historically, peanuts have been one of Virginia’s staple crops — so much so that the city of Suffolk was dubbed the “peanut capital of the world” by 1941.

Today, Elisha Barnes and Marshall Rabil of Hubbard Peanut Company have created a partnership that ensures the tradition of peanut farming remains vibrant while also keeping alive a historic method of peanut production that has existed for hundreds of years.

Read more about the history being kept alive here!

If you are from another part of the world, you might think of BBQ as an event where friends and family enjoy the summer sun and food cooked outdoors, you might think of BBQ as any food cooked on a grill, or you might assume BBQ is whatever meat receives a healthy dose of BBQ sauce. In rural southeastern Virginia, though, BBQ is one thing: slow-smoked pulled pork.

This style of cooking was developed centuries ago as a way to use the pieces of meat that might otherwise by tough. A long, slow cook (often over 12 hours) over low heat breaks down the connective tissue in the meat and imparts the signature smoke flavor. This process also develops a crisp “bark” on the exterior of the meat, while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.

Pork pairs well with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, so brown sugar, red peppers, paprika, molasses, vinegar, and mustard are commonly used to rub the meat. These same ingredients (and sometime tomato) are also the foundation of most BBQ sauces. 

The tender pork that has been pulled apart (and often chopped), with a bit of smoke flavor, is the basis of all Virginia BBQ, but every pitmaster (BBQ cook) and local BBQ joint uses a little creativity to set themselves apart.

QDaddy’s Pitmaster BBQ (Smithfield and Wakefield)
Q Daddy's is a local favorite with fresh, slow-smoked pulled pork (and lots of other smoked meats and southern sides). Q Daddy's pork is always juicy even without a lot of sauce. Their traditional sandwich is served with pickles and onions, or you can get yours with cole slaw. The original recipe Awesome Sauce or BBQ Sauce are always terrific additions. Be sure not to arrive too late. Q Daddy's often sells out before the end of the day!

Virginia Diner (Wakefield)
Virginia Diner BBQ is prepared in the traditional style of southern Virginia and North Carolina. The meat is finely pulled and prepared with vinegar-based sauce (often called North Carolina style). It's tangy, a little salty, and great with a few dashes of hot sauce. If you are craving traditional BBQ with other amazing southern fare (be sure to try the carrot souffle) you'll love Virginia Diner.

Taste of Smithfield
Taste of Smithfield prepares their pork in a Cuban style called Mojo. It is bright, fresh, and full of flavor. The creative BBQ dishes include sandwiches, tacos, and fries topped with bacon, mojo pork, and queso. Taste of Smithfield also offers lots of unique, local goodness.

Mason’s Grill & Smokehouse (Suffolk)
Mason's BBQ is straightforward, fresh, juicy, freshly-smoked pulled pork. Get a traditional BBQ sandwich with slaw or Totchos - tater tots topped with pulled pork, queso, jalapenos, and pickled onions.

Country Boys BBQ (Suffolk)
Country Boys BBQ is one of the newest additions to the Salty Southern Route's BBQ selections. They serve all your BBQ favorites including pulled pork, pulled chicken, and brisket. The made-from-scratch side dishes are especially delicious.

Suffolk BBQ Co. at the Airport
Suffolk BBQ Co. serves all the traditional favorites like sandwiches and BBQ platters with both pork and chicken BBQ. A unique favorite is the Smoked Nachos Grande. Smoked pork goes great with the flavor of corn tortillas. Especially when topped with cheese, hot pepper and sweet sauce. Both their pork and chicken is dry rubbed, slow-smoked, and then served with your choice of sweet and tangy sauces

Wharf Hill Brewing Company (Smithfield)
Wharf Hill's BBQ menu is delicious and includes one of the most creative uses of pulled pork. The Non-Wonton is pulled pork and cole slaw in an eggroll wrapper, and served with a tangy sauce. You will love all the creative dishes. And don’t forget Wharf Hill’s craft beer.

Bubba-N-Frank’s Smokehouse (Carrollton)
Bubba-N-Frank’s is beloved all over our region for simple, delicious food. Their BBQ is served both North Carolina and St. Louis style. If you are especially hungry try the Triple B Burger which includes a beef patty, St. Louis BBQ, brisket, pepper Jack cheese. and all the fixings.

Serve (Franklin)
In the heart of downtown Franklin, Serve prepares delicious American and southern classics with a modern touch. While the menu is diverse, the classic chopped pork BBQ is especially good. The hush puppies also make a fantastic addition.

April 27, 2021

Smithfield-Isle of Wight, Suffolk, Franklin-Southampton, Surry and Sussex have received approval from the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) to use the branding Virginia is for PEANUT Lovers and Virginia is for PORK Lovers in future marketing campaigns for their tourism efforts and the efforts of the Salty Southern Route. 

VTC considers Pork and Peanuts a truly unique and quintessential experience for those visitors to Smithfield-Isle of Wight, Suffolk, Franklin-Southampton, Surry and Sussex that includes farm petting, seeing how the products are used/cured, and of course, eating!

The southeastern region of Virginia has long been known for its peanuts, salt-cured hams and pork products. The Salty Southern Route takes you on a journey through this picturesque area to experience this tradition first-hand. From the town of Smithfield, namesake to the world's largest pork producer Smithfield Foods, and the city of Suffolk, home to the world-famous Planter's Peanuts, to the farms, peanut processors and charming country stores of Surry, Sussex, Franklin & Southampton County, visitors experience the culture and people behind the delicious foods the area produces. And of course - get to sample some mighty fine food along the way! The city of Franklin, Southampton County, the town of Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, the city of Suffolk and Surry County, and Sussex County have been at the very center of the pork and peanut industry since the area was first settled in the 17th century. These charming southern communities are proud of their historic and culinary traditions. They're all conveniently located in the heart of Coastal Virginia, just up the interstate from Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Newport News, Chesapeake and Hampton. For further information about the Salty Southern Route visit the website at https://www.saltysouthernroute.com/ 

The “Virginia is for Lovers” logo and word mark are registered trademarks of the Virginia Tourism Authority and the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC). The logo and word marks have been in use since their inception in 1969. The logo and word marks have gone through several visual transformations, and in recent years VTC has developed a number of sub-brand logos. Virginia is for Lovers® is the Commonwealth’s registered trademark and the official tourism logo and slogan. In its 50th year in 2019, it is one of the most recognizable after I Love New York.

The Salty Southern Route is full of hidden treasures and unique places to visit. We are compiling  a list of the most interesting sights for you to include in your travel goals for 2020.

1. Character Corner--The story (although difficult to confirm) is that Planters Peanut founder Amedeo Obici held a contest in 1916 for a company mascot. The winning design was submitted by a school-boy named Antonio Gentile. Today, the corner of West Washington Street and North Main Street in downtown Suffolk features a statue of Mr. Peanut along with a historical marker. Update: We are sad to hear of Mr. Peanut's death in January 2020. We send thoughts and prayers to all his loved ones.
2. Chanco Monument--Chanco was a Native American who prevented a massacre of the Jamestown settlers in 1622. The monument is located in front of the old Surry courthouse at the corner of Rt 10 and Rt 31.
3. Statue of Robert Frost--This bronze sculpture by George Lundeen sits in front of the Smithfield Little Theater. Robert Frost gazes over the river finding inspiration for his writing.
4. Railroad Cars--The train cars and railroad station in front of Birdsong Peanuts are interesting to explore, and they give us a glimpse into downtown Franklin's past.
5. Antique Peanut Picker--The agricultural communities along the Salty Southern Route have been home to lots of peanut innovation. This peanut harvesting machine can be seen in front of Plantation Peanuts in Wakefield.
6. Antique Railroad Bell--The Surry, Sussex, & Southampton Railroad was very important to those communities, especially the town of Dendron where the Surry Lumber Company was located. The bell sits in front of the small Dendron Museum.
7. British Telephone Box--This phone booth was a gift from Isle of Wight in England to Isle of Wight in Virginia. It no longer holds a pay phone, but it can be seen on Main Street in downtown Smithfield.
8. Jarratt Restaurant Sign--Jarratt is a small town in Sussex County. This sign is all that remains of the restaurant off Rt 301.
9. Children's Graffiti--These drawings were discovered under wallpaper at Bacon's Castle. The drawing dates back to the 1800s. Even children long ago drew on the walls. You can see it preserved on the wall when you tour Bacon's Castle.
10. 1936 Peanut Roaster--Planters Peanut Center in Suffolk roasts fresh nuts in this machine every single day. The small store is located on Washington Street.
11. Giant Peanut Sculpture--The First Peanut Museum in Waverly tells the history of Peanut agriculture in our region. This giant peanut is carved from a block of wood.
12. World's Tallest Goat Tower--Goats love to climb. You can see this amazing tower created just for the goats at Hampton Roads Winery in Surry.
13. ​Windsor Castle Boardwalk--Windsor Castle Park in Smithfield features walking trails, many of which wind through wetland areas. It is a uniquely beautiful walk.
14. Birdsong Peanuts--The Birdsong Peanut plant in Franklin is the only peanut shelling facility in Virginia. You can't go inside the plant, but exploring the area outside the brick buildings and peanut silos is very interesting.
15. 4-Seater Outhouse--Some parts of the past might bring us a little too close for comfort. The 4-seater outhouse is part of the Southampton Agriculture & Forestry Museum in Courtland (open March-December).
16. Old Driving Tunnel--On the back roads behind the Virginia Diner you can find this old tunnel that goes under the railroad tracks that run through Sussex County. It is very narrow, but you can still drive through it. 
17. Poem On Old Cemetary Wall--The Old Brick Church and Cemetary in the Bacon's Castle area of Surry dates back to the 1600s. You can find part of a poem on one of the crumbling walls. It is part of The Deserted Village by Oliver Goldsmith. "In all my wanderings round this world of care, In all my griefs—and God has given my share— I still had hopes, my latest hours to crown, Amidst these humble bowers to lay me down."
18. Nike-Ajax Missile--During the Cold War Isle of Wight County was home to Nike-Ajax Missile Site N75L. Nike Park now hosts soccer games and cookouts. You can also see a disarmed Nike-Ajax Missile which was donated by Air Power Park in Hampton.
19. Antique Farm Equipment--The Farm & Forestry Museum at Chippokes State Park in Surry shows what agricultural life was like through the years.
20. World's Oldest Ham--In 1902 Pembroke Gwaltney misplaced this ham. When discovered years later it became a prized example of Gwaltney's curing process. The ham is still remarkably well preserved after nearly 120 years. It is on display at the Isle of Wight Museum.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see more interesting photos of the "20 Things to See In 2020" as as well as more interesting sights along the Salty Southern Route.

Grilled Peaches
Grilling fruit might seem like a strange idea at first, but the unique sweetness of fruit from the grill is a special summer treat. Grilled peaches can be especially good topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

1. Cut fresh peaches in half and remove the pit.
2. If they are especially juicy, dry them with a paper towel. (moisture slows the cooking)
3. Sprinkle the inside of the peaches with brown sugar and cinnamon. The sugar adds some sweetness, but also helps the peaches to brown on the grill.
4. Lay the peaches cut side down on the grill grates. On a gas grill keep the flame low. If using charcoal place the peaches in an area of the grill where the heat is not too intense.
5. Leave on the grill for 10-15 minutes or until the peach is soft. Check occasionally to be sure the bottom is not becoming too charred.
6. Serve while still warm. Add some granola, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Check out the Farmer's Markets in Surry, Smithfield, Carrollton, Wakefield, Franklin, Suffolk, and Courtland for fresh peaches.

​Smoked Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a southern classic with as many variations as there are southern cooks. This recipe tries to capture a bit of summer along with the smokiness of outdoor cooking. If you are wary of smoked and dessert, don't worry. The combination of smoke, raisins, apples, and cinnamon is amazing.

Ingedients:

• 1/2 to a full loaf of old bread (white bread tends to be the best)
• 5 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup diced apple
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

 

1. Grease a 9x9 inch pan (be sure to use a pan that can go in a smoker).
2. Break the bread into small pieces and fill the pan. Do no pack the bread.
3. Spread apples, raisins, and cinnamon on bread.
4. In a medium bowl mix eggs, milk, 1/2 cup sugar. Pour this mixture over the bread and stir gently.
5. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the bread mixture. Do not stir in.
6. Heat smoker or grill to 275 degrees. Place pan in smoker or grill. Do not place over direct heat or it will burn. 
7. Use a small amount of wood chips when smoking. You don't want the smoke flavor to be too strong in this dish.
8. Cook for 45-60 minutes. The bread pudding is finished when it is puffy and has turned medium brown on top. It should jiggle a little, but not have any visible liquid.
9. This bread pudding can be served hot, room temperature, or cold. It is also good with some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

This bread pudding can be divided into smaller cooking dishes (as pictured). Small cooking dishes allows you do decrease the cooking time.

Look for fresh eggs, milk, bread and apples at the Farmer's Markets in Surry, Smithfield, Carrollton, Wakefield, Franklin, Suffolk, and Courtland. You can also find great bread at the Smithfield Gourmet Bakery.

This chilly time of year brings out the “hungry” in all of us!  And, just in time for this hankering for a good meal, Smithfield’s 6th Annual Restaurant week is coming up and ready to oblige!  The best part about Restaurant Week is that you are hopefully enticed to travel to an establishment that you may not have been to before!  If you are in the mood for something new, or to just patronize one of your favorite spots, Friday, February 1st through Saturday, February 9th is a great week to hang out in Isle of Wight County! 
 
That being said, let’s talk about where you are riding The Salty Southern Route to during this delicious week!  Also, what is pretty awesome, is that some of these eating establishments you may not even have thought would be on the list for a restaurant week!  For instance, have you been to Cure Coffeehouse in Downtown Smithfield yet?!  Or, have you had breakfast at the Cockeyed Roaster off of Route 10, or even The Gatling Point Yacht Club for lunch or dinner?  And these places are just the tip of the ice burg!  All in all, Smithfield’s Restaurant week has 17 participating restaurants/businesses, both inside and outside of the Historic District! These places include, but are not limited to, The Smithfield Inn, The Smithfield Station, Wharf Hill Brewing Company, The Taste of Smithfield, the newly renovated Tokyo & Thai, Q-Daddy’s and Bubba-N-Frank’s BBQ, Captain Chuck-A-Mucks and Darden’s Country Store! These places are featuring a specially priced lunch and dinner option, or options, that features something unique about their menu!
 
So, what are you doing the first week of February?!  Hopefully you will be taking a trip on The Salty Southern Route to Isle of Wight County, Virginia!  The food in this charming “Ham Town” is sure to delight!  
 
Check out this link for a full list of participating business and links to their specialty menu for the week!
http://visitsmithfield.com
 
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