Holiday Recipes
Part 1 of 2
Southern Flavors just in time for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and
share a delicious meal that captures the essence of the season. Southern
cuisine is known for its heartwarming, soulful dishes that make for a memorable
Thanksgiving feast. Explore three beloved Southern recipes with ingredient
lists and instructions, and I’ll even tell you why so many people love each one.
1. Southern Jalapeno Cornbread Dressing:
Ingredients:
1 batch of cornbread (8x8-inch square pan)
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup jalapenos, finely chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon sage
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crumble the cornbread
into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the
celery, onion, jalapenos, and green pepper, sautéing until they become tender.
Pour the vegetable mixture over the crumbled cornbread, and
add the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Gradually add the chicken broth until the mixture is moist
but not too wet.
Transfer the dressing to a greased baking dish and bake for
35-45 minutes, or until it's golden brown on top.
Why it's a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Southern Cornbread Dressing is a Thanksgiving staple because
of its comforting, homey flavors. It's a delightful blend of crispy edges and a
soft, flavorful center. The combination of cornbread, savory herbs, and a
subtle kick of green bell pepper creates a harmonious side dish that
complements turkey and gravy perfectly.
2. Collard Greens:
Ingredients:
2 pounds collard greens, washed and trimmed
4 slices thick-cut bacon
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble
for garnish later. Leave the bacon grease in the pot.
Sauté onions and garlic in the bacon grease until onions are
translucent.
Add the chicken broth, collard greens, vinegar, hot sauce,
salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for
about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the greens are tender.
Why it's a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Collard greens are a Southern classic, and they're a
Thanksgiving essential because of their rich, smoky flavor. The bacon, garlic,
and vinegar provide depth, and the dish's heat level can be adjusted to suit
your family's taste. Plus, it's a hearty and nutritious addition to the holiday
spread.
3. Sweet Potato Pie:
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, beat the sweet potatoes and butter until
smooth. Add sugar, milk, eggs, spices, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the pie is set and a knife
inserted in the center comes out clean.
Why it's a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Sweet Potato Pie is a cherished Southern dessert that has
made its way onto Thanksgiving tables across the country. Its silky, spiced
filling and flaky pie crust create a dessert that embodies the warmth and
comfort of the holiday season. The sweetness and flavor of the sweet potatoes
shine, making it a delightful finale to your Thanksgiving meal.
Can't wait for Christmas? "Secret Admirer's Christmas Wish #4" is LIVE!
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