Southern comfort food isn’t just about taste; it’s about tradition, warmth, and a sense of home. Every dish has a story, steeped in flavors that bring out the heart of Southern hospitality. From crispy fried chicken to creamy mashed potatoes and classic cornbread, these recipes offer a little bit of the South’s warmth and soul right in your kitchen.
Contents
- 1 Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- 2 Shrimp and Grits
- 3 Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
- 4 Classic Southern Biscuits
- 5 Pecan Pie
- 6 Cornbread
- 7 Sweet Potato Casserole
- 8 Red Beans and Rice
- 9 Banana Pudding
- 10 More From RetailShout
- 11 11 New and 10 Returning Items Of The Week At Trader Joe`s
- 12 17 Hidden Gems at ALDI That Will Elevate Your Baking Creations
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
For a Southern classic, make buttermilk fried chicken by soaking eight pieces of chicken in a bowl of buttermilk overnight with a pinch of salt and black pepper. In a separate dish, mix 2 cups of flour with a teaspoon of garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then fry in hot oil for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. The buttermilk keeps the chicken tender, while the flour mix gives it that irresistible crunch. Serve hot for a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Shrimp and Grits
To make shrimp and grits, start by cooking a cup of stone-ground grits in water or chicken broth until creamy. Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, a pat of butter, and salt to taste. Meanwhile, in a skillet, sauté 1 pound of shrimp with garlic, green onions, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning until pink and juicy. Pour the shrimp mixture over the grits, letting the flavors meld together in each bite. This Southern favorite combines creamy and spicy notes for a soul-satisfying meal any time of day.
Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
To make hearty collard greens, cook a large ham hock in a pot with water for about an hour until the meat is tender and flavorful. Add a bunch of cleaned and chopped collard greens to the pot, along with a chopped onion and a dash of red pepper flakes. Simmer everything together for an hour, letting the greens soak up the savory broth from the ham hock. A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens up the greens just before serving. This Southern staple is perfect alongside cornbread or any main dish.
Classic Southern Biscuits
Whip up classic Southern biscuits by combining 2 cups of flour, a tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Cut in half a cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in 3/4 cup of buttermilk. Knead lightly, roll out the dough, and cut into rounds. Bake at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden. These biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and just right for breakfast or served alongside any Southern meal.
Pecan Pie
For a rich pecan pie, mix together 3 eggs, a cup of sugar, a cup of corn syrup, and a splash of vanilla extract. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of pecans and pour the filling into an unbaked pie crust. Bake at 350°F for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden. The pie is sweet, gooey, and topped with a beautiful layer of crunchy pecans. Slice and serve with whipped cream for a truly Southern dessert that hits all the right notes.
Cornbread
Southern cornbread comes together by mixing a cup of cornmeal with a cup of flour, a teaspoon of baking powder, and a bit of salt. Stir in an egg, a cup of buttermilk, and melted butter. Pour into a hot cast-iron skillet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden. The result is a warm, slightly crumbly bread that pairs perfectly with everything from fried chicken to collard greens. Serve with a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Make sweet potato casserole by mashing 4 cups of cooked sweet potatoes with butter, brown sugar, and a dash of cinnamon. Spread the mixture in a baking dish, then top with a layer of mini marshmallows and chopped pecans. Bake at 350°F until the top is golden and bubbling. This dish combines the creamy texture of sweet potatoes with a crunchy, sweet topping for a side that tastes like dessert. It’s a holiday favorite and an essential Southern comfort dish.
Red Beans and Rice
For red beans and rice, cook a pound of red beans in water with a smoked sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Simmer for a few hours until the beans are soft and flavorful. Serve over a bowl of hot rice for a dish that’s hearty, filling, and full of Southern spices. This classic is perfect as a main dish or side, especially when you need a little Southern warmth and flavor.
Banana Pudding
Banana pudding starts with layering vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and creamy vanilla pudding in a dish. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of pudding and whipped cream on top. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours so the flavors meld together. The result is a smooth, sweet dessert with soft layers and bursts of banana flavor. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and hard to resist.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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