I’m the type of person who plans all my trips around food experiences, so visiting “landmarks” usually revolves around iconic eateries, food halls, markets…you get the picture. The only place I’ve ever been to in the South is New Orleans, and while I’m a bit fuzzy on the details of the various trips themselves—way too many Hurricane slushies and bourbon cocktails—my sense memory of the food remains crystal clear: creamy grits, smoky collard greens, rich gravies, and a plethora of sweet, sweet desserts.

Putting together this collection of 17 iconic Southern recipes made me feel like I was embarking on a road trip through the American South, tucking into a big plate of country ham and sopping up the red-eye gravy with as many fluffy cathead biscuits I could get my hands on. Although I’m admittedly a wimp when it comes to spicy food, I’d happily brave a Nashville hot chicken sandwich—as long as I could quell the heat by digging into a bowl of cool banana pudding afterward. Even if you can’t travel through the South, cooking these recipes will easily take you on a delicious sensory adventure. Happy trails!