The Kentucky Derby is almost here and if you are not traveling to Louisville to witness the magic of this event, let’s recreate that same atmosphere at your home.
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a race. It is a celebration of champions, a fashion runway, and of course a holiday for your taste buds with all the southern flavors.
Throughout the years, this event has followed its tradition and we can see that everywhere, even in the food. Some of the traditional Kentucky Derby recipes are as old as the race itself, if not older.
So, can you create a Kentucky Derby feast at your home? Of course. The recipes aren’t that complicated, and we are not talking about Michelin-star food. Most of the Kentucky Derby recipes can be easily created at home and it is more about soul and flavors, rather than fancy presentation.
This means that you can bring the entire Kentucky Derby atmosphere to your home. You’ll need a few simple things:
• Traditional Kentucky Derby food
• Mint Juleps
• Some Friends (preferably horse racing enthusiasts)
Let’s dive into some of the most popular Kentucky Derby dishes, and find out how to make them.
Hot Brown Sandwich – A Louisville Classic
Ingredients:
• 4 slices of thick white bread
• 8 slices of turkey breast
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• Grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Creamy Mornay sauce (made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese)
Preparation:
1. Toast the bread and place two slices on each plate.
2. Layer turkey slices and tomato on top, then pour a generous amount of Mornay sauce.
3. Sprinkle with cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
4. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crispy bacon.
Why is it called a Hot Brown? The sandwich was created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville in the 1920s as a hearty late-night snack. It is the ultimate cheat-day meal for those who don’t count calories.
Kentucky Burgoo – A Stew with History
Ingredients:
• Mixed meats (chicken, beef, and pork)
• Diced vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions, celery)
• Corn, lima beans, and okra
• Beef stock and tomato paste
Preparation:
1. Brown meats in a large pot, then remove.
2. In the same pot, sauté vegetables until softened.
3. Return meats to the pot, add stock and tomato paste, bringing to a boil.
4. Simmer for hours until thick and flavors meld.
Fun Fact: Many people say that this recipe comes from Europe(France and Belgium) and arrived in Kentucky in the 19thcentury.
Burgoo is often cooked in large pots and for many people. This recipe isn’t fancy at all. In fact, it was created by the working class who put most of the leftovers from the fridge in a pot. It symbolizes coming together making it perfect for a party.
Derby Pie – A Chocolate and Nut Delight
Ingredients:
• Pie crust
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread chocolate chips and walnuts in the bottom of the pie crust.
3. Mix eggs, sugar, flour, melted butter, and vanilla, then pour over nuts.
4. Bake for about 40 minutes until set.
Did you catch this? Derby Pie is actually a trademarked name, by the Kern family who owned the Melrose Inn in 1968. That’s why many restaurants and recipes will refer to it as “Derby-style” pie.
Benedictine Spread – A Refreshing Cucumber Delicacy
Ingredients:
• 1 cucumber, peeled and grated
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons onion, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A dash of green food coloring (optional)
Preparation:
1. Combine cucumber, cream cheese, onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Mix until smooth, adding green food coloring if desired.
3. Refrigerate for an hour before serving on crackers or bread.
4. Curious Fact: Benedictine spread was invented by Jennie Carter Benedict, a Louisville caterer, in the early 1900s.
Pecan Chicken Salad – A Southern Staple
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grapes or dried cranberries for sweetness (optional)
Preparation:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pecans, and celery.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for the dressing.
3. Combine the dressing with the chicken mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Add grapes or dried cranberries if desired for a sweet contrast.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich.
Why is this salad a hit at Derby parties? Its creamy texture and nutty crunch offer a delightful contrast, making it a refreshing accompaniment to the more decadent Derby dishes. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Final Words
These are some of the most popular dishes often served at the Kentucky Derby. So, if you are not witnessing the event in person, try to recreate some of their most iconic recipes. They are simple and anyone can do it!
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