Introduction
Southern-style dishes are some of the most flavorful and comforting meals you’ll find. From fried chicken to macaroni and cheese, the ingredients used in Southern cooking are often hearty and flavorful. In addition, Southern-style dishes often require minimal ingredients and are relatively easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious family meal, these Southern-style dishes are sure to please. Read on to learn more about some of the most popular Southern-style dishes and how to make them.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a classic Southern-style dish that is loved by many. The key to making this dish is to use a flavorful marinade and to fry the chicken in hot oil. To make fried chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least two hours (or overnight, if possible). Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in flour and then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry the chicken for about 10 minutes, flipping once, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Serve the fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and coleslaw.
Macaroni and Cheese
Nothing says comfort food quite like macaroni and cheese. This Southern-style dish is easy to make and sure to please the whole family. To make macaroni and cheese, begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it and set aside. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat and then whisk in the flour. Slowly add milk and whisk until the mixture has thickened. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir until combined. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and top with a layer of breadcrumbs. Bake for about 25 minutes and serve warm.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a classic Southern-style side dish. This tasty dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect addition to any meal. To make collard greens, start by washing and trimming the collard greens. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the collard greens. Boil the collard greens for about ten minutes and then drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat and then add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Add the collard greens and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add a few tablespoons of water and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the collard greens for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Serve the collard greens with your favorite dishes.
Hopping John
Hopping John is a classic Southern-style dish that is typically served on New Year’s Day. This dish is made of black-eyed peas and rice and is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. To make Hopping John, begin by cooking the black-eyed peas according to the package instructions. Once the peas are cooked, add the cooked rice and stir until combined. In a separate skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat and then add the diced onion and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Add the cooked peas and rice to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add a few tablespoons of water and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the Hopping John for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Serve the Hopping John with your favorite dishes.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern-style side dish that is perfect for any meal. This delicious bread is often served with chili, collard greens, and other Southern dishes. To make cornbread, start by preheating the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Serve the cornbread warm with butter and honey.
Fried Okra
Fried okra is a classic Southern-style side dish that is sure to please. This tasty dish is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. To make fried okra, start by washing and slicing the okra into 1/4-inch slices. Place the okra slices in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge the okra slices in flour and then carefully place them in a skillet of hot oil. Fry the okra for about 5 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown. Serve the fried okra with your favorite dishes.
Nutrition
Southern-style dishes are typically high in calories and fat, as they are often made with ingredients such as butter, oil, and cheese. However, many of these dishes also contain a good amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals. For example, fried chicken is a good source of lean protein, and collard greens are a good source of vitamins A and C. When eaten in moderation, these dishes can be part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Southern-style dishes are some of the most flavorful and comforting meals you’ll find. From fried chicken to macaroni and cheese, these dishes are sure to please the whole family. While these dishes are often high in calories and fat, they can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. So the next time you’re looking for a delicious family meal, try one of these Southern-style dishes.