Every region of the United States is blessed with its own distinct culture, cuisine, and way of life. However, the Southern states in the US are known to be dramatically different from the rest of the country. And if you were following the Tennessee whiskey trail and somehow ended up in Kentucky, you will notice just how unique this Southern state is. While you're here, make sure to give the most famous Kentucky dishes a try. We guarantee they will leave you (and your stomach) happy and satisfied!
Hot Brown sandwich
The Hot Brown sandwich has been a Kentucky staple since it was first introduced in 1926. Fred K. Schmidt, a chef at the Brown Hotel, Louisville, was the genius behind this delicacy. The Hot Brown is an open sandwich consisting of turkey, tomato, Mornay sauce, and bacon. It achieves the perfect balance of gooey and crispy by being toasted in a broiler as a final touch. If you are moving to Kentucky, this is one delicacy you should not miss! And if you manage to get the best deal from your movers, you will have more funds to spend on such mouthwatering food. Although the hot brown sandwich at the Brown Hotel might be costly, it is a worthwhile experience that will leave you feeling like a true Kentuckian.
Burgoo stew
A dish often found at political rallies, potlucks, and barbecues is the Burgoo stew. Just like with soups, this stew will make you feel warm and full! Traditionally, Burgoo was made with whatever meat was available. From squirrel to opossum and even raccoon! However, do not worry; these days, Burgoo is most often made with chicken, pork, or mutton. It is packed full of various vegetables such as cabbages, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes, to name a few. The starch from such vegetables, when slow-cooked, turns this delicacy into a thick, tasty stew.
Benedictine spread/dip
Although Benedictine is a spread, it belongs on the list of the most famous Kentucky dishes for a reason! Jennie Benedict, a caterer and editor for the Louisville Courier-Journal, created this tasty spread by mixing cucumber juice, onion juice, cream cheese, and mayonnaise. However, you cannot call this spread Benedictine without the signature light green color you can achieve with a few drops of green food coloring. Once made, you can use it to make sandwiches or as a dip for crackers. Additionally, you may add this creamy sauce to any salad of your choice to make it that more creamy and delicious.
Spoonbread souffle
If you are not from the Southern parts of America, you may not be familiar with the dish spoonbread. However, Kentuckians love spoonbread! They even consider it a form of comfort food that families often prepare. It is relatively easy to make with simple ingredients most people have in their homes, such as milk, cornmeal, eggs, butter, and salt. If you combine these ingredients, you will get a nice blend of cornbread texture and souffle fluffiness. Strongassmovers.comstrongly recommends taking in all the state has to offer after your relocation, so be sure to visit The Spoonbread Festival and enjoy its other variations. Who knows, it might become one of your comfort foods as well!
Bourbon Balls
Did you know that Kentucky produces a whopping 95 percent of the world's bourbon? Brands such as Jim Bean and Maker's Mark have made this state's bourbon scene that much more well known. Therefore, it is not shocking some desserts utilize this excellent drink. One such dessert is the Bourbon Balls. This dessert is bite-sized and made by rolling crumbled cookies, nuts, and bourbon into balls. The most important step is allowing them to "age" for a week before sprinkling them with confectioner's sugar. Bourbon Balls are somewhat alcoholic, which makes them a great treat to make for parties! They might remind you of rum balls; however, they have a distinct Kentucky flavor!
Kentucky Butter Cake
Another dessert that deserves a spot on the most famous Kentucky dishes list is the Kentucky Butter Cake. This cake is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. It is insanely moist and buttery, leaving you wanting one more slice. On top of that, a sweet buttery sauce is drizzled and soaked into the cake. What makes this dessert even better is that you can make it in the comfort of your own home with only a few basic ingredients. The Kentucky Butter Cake is so delicious and rich that it doesn't require any additional toppings. You may, however, use any toppings you choose, including fruit syrups, chocolate syrups, and even ice cream. Do not be concerned if you prefer to eat the cake without baking it. You can find this meal in a variety of eateries throughout Kentucky.
Derby Pie
Besides The Spoonbread Festival, Kentucky is famous for The Kentucky Derby held each year at Churchill Downs. Since the first-ever Kentucky Derby in 1875, it has become a true staple of the Kentucky spirit. Additionally, this Derby heavily inspired one of the most famous Kentucky dishes that is the Derby Pie.
In the 1950s, Walter and Leaudra's Melrose Inn in Prospect, Kentucky, invented the original recipe for the Derby Pie. However, to this day, this recipe remains a well-kept family secret. It includes a combination of chocolate chips, different nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), and a sweet, buttery filling. This makes the cake incredibly rich and delicious. A variety of places offer this delicacy, but the most famous one is the Kern's Kitchen in Louisville. Other eateries may offer it as well, with surprising new additions to it, such as a splash of bourbon. If you love delicacies inspired by different events, you may try the Super Bowl Saidas. When compared to the Derby Pie, this dish is a healthier but still delicious alternative you could try!
Which of the famous Kentucky dishes do you want to try first? Have you already had any?
