Southern Cast Iron - December 2023 USA
Southern Cast Iron - December 2023 USA
Southern Cast Iron - December 2023 USA
CONTENTS
November | December 2023
Volume 9, Issue 6
First
FrOm tHe EdItOrS 7
’Tis the season for all things cast iron
ChEf’s TaBlE 11
Amarys Koenig Herndon and
Jordan Herndon (New Orleans, LA)
of Palm & Pine
Next 57
DuTcH oVeN cOmFoRt 31
Cozy stews and soups for this pan
@lindaskeensblueribbon 800-361-8059
83PLS23
Southern
CAST IRON
®
EDITORIAL
D I G I TA L M E D I A A D M I N I S T R AT I V E
MARKETING COORDINATOR Morgan Barbay PRODUCTION/CIRCUL ATION Samantha Sullivan
ONLINE EDITOR Rachel Marshall EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Charlotte Gibens
DIGITAL DESIGNER Stephanie Lambert
I N T E G R AT E D M A R K E T I N G S O LU T I O N S
Southern Cast Iron ISSN 2572-7052 is published bi-monthly by Hoffman Media, LLC, 2323 2nd Avenue North; Birmingham, AL 35203. 1-888-411-8995. The cover and contents of Southern Cast Iron are fully
protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent of Hoffman Media. All rights reserved in all countries. Southern Cast Iron assumes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs
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From the Editors
LeT yOuR cAsT iRoN cOoKwArE dO tHe tAlKiNg aS yOu cReAtE nEw mEmOrIeS aNd nEw tRaDiTiOnS
tHiS sEaSoN. HaPpY cOoKiNg aNd hApPy hOlIdAyS fRoM tHe SoUtHeRn CaSt IrOn fAmIlY.
48 96
For daily cast iron recipes, tips, and stories you don’t want
to miss, be sure to follow us on social media, and show us
your cast iron pride by using #southerncastiron. @southerncastiron @southerncastiron @castironsouth
C
hef Jordan Herndon’s New Orleans restaurant, Palm & Pine, the end of The Old Portage’s four-year run, Palm & Pine’s theme
is nestled in the French Quarter. Dedicated to honoring the came to fruition as the duo finalized where they wanted their
heritage of Louisiana cuisine, their restaurant proudly explores future restaurant to be and what they wanted to do with it.
“the South, and south of that,” which ranges from the Southern “New Orleans is definitely at the core of what we do,” Amarys
region of the US all the way down to Central America and the explains. “I think we developed the concept of ‘the South, and
Caribbean. After moving to New Orleans and attending culinary south of that’ while we were working as a pop-up and as we were
school, the power couple knew they wanted to open a restaurant exploring a lot of different ideas and a lot of different foods. We
together. set these pretty large boundaries for ourselves—these are the
But before Palm & Pine came to be in 2019, Amarys and Jordan areas that we’re going to explore and we’re going to cut from, but
ran a successful pop-up eatery called The Old Portage, which was everything that we do is with New Orleans in mind, or through
located in the popular French Quarter Black Penny bar. Toward the lens of New Orleans.”
Jordan adds, “We have a restaurant in the French Quarter, which pop-up, their community embraced them with open arms. “When
is pretty lucky, and we feel the need to celebrate New Orleans, we first started out,” Amarys recalls, “everything was so personal
especially since people come from all over the country to cook and interactive. Places would host us and let us cook food there.”
here, which is great. But it’s important to have a foundation and be Palm & Pine has since returned the favor by hosting other
grounded in New Orleans cuisine and the culture.” businesses and working on events together. “It was always going
Amarys and Jordan’s celebration of the city and the region goes to be part of our restaurant,” says Amarys. “We’re proud of our
deeper than the concept of their restaurant. All the ingredients used community, so why would we not want to be involved with other
are locally and regionally sourced. At least once a week, Jordan people? We get to cook in one of the coolest cities in the world.”
heads to the local farmers’ market to gather seasonal ingredients Palm & Pine hosts burlesque nights, collaborates with other bars in
for the restaurant. Anything that can’t be sourced from the market the South, and takes part in local festivals. The warm, inviting aura
is ordered in from the region. “We’re trying to explore a region as is evident when you set foot into the restaurant, and it’s obvious
a restaurant. We get our pork from Mississippi; our quail is from that this foundation begins with those at the helm.
Texas, and seafood is always from the Gulf,” says Jordan. The restaurant’s open kitchen allows patrons to peek inside and
Amarys and Jordan, like many Southerners, have a strong watch as the chefs use a go-to kitchen tool—the cast-iron skillet.
connection to their community. This is evident in every part of “We try to find a balance of different techniques, whether something
their restaurant, from where they get their ingredients and how is grilled, smoked, boiled, or fried, but one thing we always have is
the kitchen is run to what events take place at Palm & Pine. Though something cooked in cast iron,” Jordan says. One of Amarys’s recipes
they have the final say, the two chefs are not the only ones who is exclusively made in cast iron—cornbread sticks made in a cast-iron
contribute to the menu. The sous chef and other members of the corn stick pan. “We call them Corn Babies,” Amarys says, “because
kitchen staff collaborate as well. “It’s not just me and Jordan; it’s they’re so cute.” She continues to explain that almost everything that’s
definitely a team mentality,” says Amarys. “We’re all invested in being sautéed or seared is likely being done in cast iron. Even family
what we’re doing, and we’re all proud of the food we make.” This meals (the dishes made for the staff to eat between peak hours) will
sense of community started in the home, with both Amarys and sometimes be cooked in cast iron. “We have a nice [cast iron] collection
Jordan coming from large families, and was furthered as they at the restaurant,” Jordan says. Amarys even hinted that the next cake
stepped into the New Orleans culinary world. When they ran the to be added to the menu would likely be made in cast iron.
Z TX Z
Make spirits merry and bright with a getaway to one of the Peach State’s many unique cities, towns, and
communities. Celebrate the holidays with trademark Southern hospitality and small-town charm.
AN ESCAPE TO EATONTON
T
his season, spend a little time in and around the historic downtown Eatonton and get lost in the beautiful Victorian,
city of Eatonton, located in “Georgia’s Lake Country.” Gothic, and antebellum-style homes lining the streets. Spend an
Slow down and explore some of Eatonton’s history with afternoon among the fragrant flora of Butterflies and Blooms in
its plethora of museums—such as the Georgia Writers’ the Briar Patch, a five-acre volunteer-created green space that
Museum or the Historic Uncle Remus Museum. Stroll through is home to many unique flowers, enjoy the perfect afternoon
picnic under the trees, and then wander the Briar Patch’s
quarter-mile soft walking track that winds through and around
the park’s natural water features.
With two lakes nearby, Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair, there
is ample opportunity to kayak, paddleboard, jet ski, boat,
wakeboard, or even just float around. At Oconee Springs Park
you can relax on the lake-front beach or jump around on the
on-water inflatables. Set out on the water aboard kayaks,
paddle boards, and pedal boats that are available for rent at the
park or take aim at the Rock Hawk/Oconee Archery Range.
For an off the water adventure, Rock Hawk Effigy and trails
has 15 miles of hiking, biking, and running trails. Learn about
the ancient stone effigy from the outdoor interpretive centers
and view the effigy and surrounding wetlands from the
viewing tower. And as your adventure comes to a close, take
home a bit of Georgia at Lake Oconee’s own Artisans Village
Art Gallery, which sells local arts and crafts from homegrown
creators.
Whether visiting to admire the deep history or looking for an
outdoor adventure, Eatonton and its surrounding treasure
trove of nature is the perfect getaway!
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ADVENTURES IN ALPHARETTA
G
et away to awesome Alpharetta for an unforgettable local dishes at the Alpharetta Food Truck Alley, which
weekend! Located in vibrant northern Fulton County features more than ten food trucks and live music to enjoy.
and just outside of Atlanta’s metropolitan area, the Looking to break a sweat? Get competitive at Fairway Social
charming city of Alpharetta boasts plenty of one-of-a-kind for live and virtual games (like mini golf, zombie dodgeball, and
sights to see and adventures to embark on! more) while enjoying a full-service restaurant and rooftop bar.
For the music lovers, there are more than a few ways to After working up an appetite, have a taste of the coastal-
jam. Bask in the sounds of the Alpharetta Symphony or dance inspired menu and atmosphere at Cape Restaurant & Beach
the night away all season long at Avalon Nights Live! Looking Bar, an Instagram-worthy and delicious affair; a dinner there
forward to local independent musicians? Alpharetta’s Live will definitely be an unforgettable meal! And afterward, sneak
Music Matchups will immerse listeners in a vibrant into Roaring Social—a ’20s-themed speakeasy, complete with
soundscape unique to the city. Soak in the good vibrations dancing, old-fashioned bowling, craft cocktails, and tasty bites.
of award-winning acts at The Velvet Note’s intimate, For those seeking adventure indoors, there are more than
acoustically perfected “listening room,” and chow down on a few ways to enjoy Alpharetta as well: embarking on a
prehistoric safari at Dino Safari: A Walk-Thru Adventure or
spending an afternoon shopping and people-watching at the
North Point Mall or the Avalon shopping mecca. Make long-
lasting memories at the Original Selfie Museum or take a
load off and enjoy a pint at local breweries Currahee Brewery
and Jekyll Brewing. Create your own signature scent at
INDIEHOUSE Modern Fragrance Bar’s Scent Blending 101
course and browse their inventory of fine perfumes and
colognes. And after a day of shopping and eating, enjoy a
break at the Alpharetta LifeSpa!
Whether planning a short break or looking to stay awhile,
Alpharetta is the perfect getaway from the mundane, perfect
for adventurers of all ages.
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING
Makes Two 9x4x3-inch Loaves or Six Baby Loaves
You know a recipe has stood the test of time when the original lined index card it’s written on is
dog-eared, water-stained, smeared, smudged, and barely legible. That describes this pumpkin loaf.
Ingredients Directions
⅔ cup shortening 1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Lightly coat the loaf pans
2⅔ cups sugar with baking spray or grease and flour the sides and
4 eggs bottom of the pans.
1 cup applesauce, unsweetened 2. In the bowl of your electric mixer, cream the
1 cup mashed pumpkin (not shortening and the sugar. Add eggs, one at a time,
pumpkin pie filling) beating after each addition. No stranger to heartache,
3⅓ cups flour 3. Stir in the applesauce and the pumpkin. Carole Holiday artfully
2 teaspoons baking soda braids together her story of
4. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, overwhelming loss with biblical
½ teaspoon baking powder
and spices in a separate bowl, and stir with a whisk to insights and delicious recipes
1½ teaspoons salt combine, breaking up any clumps. from the little cottage on the
1 teaspoon cinnamon* lane—the cooking school she
5. Alternating with the apple juice, add the dry
½ teaspoon mace* once owned. Carole’s journey
ingredients to the shortening-sugar mixture. Stir until offers hope that after the ravages
½ teaspoon nutmeg*
well combined. of grief and despair, God can
⅔ cup apple juice, unsweetened bring good back to life through
1 cup walnuts or pecans, optional 6. Stir in nuts if desired.
faith, food, and fellowship.
*Alternately, use 2 teaspoons of 7. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes for larger loaf pans and caroleholiday.com/book
pumpkin pie spice 18 to 24 minutes for baby loaves.
FEAST OF
THE SEVEN
FISHES STEW
page 37
WhAt’s oLd iS
nEw aGaIn wHeN iT
cOmEs tO eXtRa tUrKeY,
mAsHeD pOtAtOeS, aNd
aNy oThEr lEfToVeRs
fRoM yOuR hOlIdAy
fEsTiViTiEs
46
47 SOUTHERN CAST IRON
BaKeD ThAnKsGiViNg RiSoTtO ½ cup warm unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Makes 6 to 8 servings ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided Garnish: ground black pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter fresh sage
Leftover roasted root vegetables blend 4 tablespoons water, divided
beautifully into this cheesy and creamy risotto. 4 large eggs 1. In a large enamel-coated cast-iron skillet,
¾ pound sliced cooked turkey, warmed cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, 8 to
¼ cup unsalted butter Garnish: chopped fresh parsley, ground 10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and
1 cup chopped onion black pepper let drain on paper towels.
2 cloves garlic, chopped or minced 2. To same skillet, add potato and onion; cover
½ cup finely chopped celery 1. Preheat oven to 350°. and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
1 cup Arborio rice 2. Shape stuffing into 4 (½-inch-thick) Uncover and add bell pepper, salt, and black
¼ cup dry white wine patties (½ cup each). pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until
1 (32-ounce) container vegetable broth 3. In top of a double boiler or in a metal bowl tender and golden brown, about 2 minutes.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided over simmering water, whisk egg yolks and Stir in turkey, cooked bacon, sage, and
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided lemon juice until blended; cook, whisking vinegar; cook, stirring occasionally, until
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided constantly, until mixture is thick enough heated through, about 3 minutes. Serve warm.
3 cups coarsely chopped roasted root to coat a metal spoon and an instant-read Garnish with black pepper and sage, if desired.
vegetables (such as fennel, parsnips, thermometer registers 160°. Reduce heat to
butternut squash, and sliced garlic) low. Slowly drizzle in warm melted butter and
2 cups chopped fresh curly kale ¼ teaspoon salt, whisking constantly. Transfer CrEaMy TuRkEy aNd WiLd RiCe SoUp
2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage to a small bowl. Place bowl in a larger bowl of Makes about 6 servings
½ teaspoon lemon zest warm water. Keep warm, stirring occasionally, (photo on page 46)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice until ready to serve, up to 30 minutes.
Garnish: grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, 4. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat The star of the Thanksgiving meal takes on
olive oil, ground black pepper, chopped 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. a new life in this cozy and comforting soup.
fresh sage Cook stuffing patties until an instant-read
thermometer registers 165°, 3 to 4 minutes 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1. Preheat oven to 350°. on each side. Keep warm. ½ cup sliced celery
2. In a 4-quart cast-iron Dutch oven, melt 5. Place 1 tablespoon water into each of 2 large carrots, halved and sliced
butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, 4 wells in a nonstick muffin pan. Carefully 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
and celery; cook, stirring constantly, for crack 1 egg into each well. Sprinkle evenly 2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 minute. Add rice and wine; cook until wine with remaining ½ teaspoon salt. 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
is absorbed, stirring occasionally. 6. Bake until whites are set but yolks are still ¼ cup all-purpose flour
3. Add broth, ¼ cup cheese, 1 teaspoon runny, 9 to 10 minutes. Let stand for 1 to 1 cup wild rice blend
salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, 2 minutes. Run a thin knife around outside edge 2 (32-ounce) packages low-sodium
stirring constantly. of each egg and remove with a slotted spoon. chicken broth
4. Cover and bake for 15 minutes, stirring Place on paper towels and gently pat dry. To 1 teaspoon kosher salt
every 5 minutes. Remove from oven and serve, layer turkey and 1 egg on top of each ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
stir in roasted vegetables and kale. Cover stuffing patty. Top with warm hollandaise sauce. ¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning
and bake until rice is tender and creamy, Garnish with parsley and pepper, if desired. 3 cups shredded roasted turkey
5 to 10 minutes more. Garnish: ground black pepper, fresh
5. Remove from oven and stir in remaining thyme leaves
¼ cup cheese, sage, lemon zest and juice, TuRkEy HaSh
remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and remaining Makes 4 to 6 servings 1. In a medium cast-iron Dutch oven, melt
¼ teaspoon pepper. Garnish with cheese, lemon (photo on page 44) butter over medium heat. Add celery, carrot,
zest, olive oil, pepper, and sage, if desired. onion, garlic, and thyme; cook over medium
The beauty of a hash is that anything goes. heat, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are
We opted for a fall-forward flavor profile, crisp-tender, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle flour
ThAnKsGiViNg EgGs BeNeDiCt but you can customize it with meats, starches, over vegetables and cook, stirring, until evenly
Makes 4 servings and seasonings of your choosing. coated and lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
(photo on page 43) 2. Add rice and gradually stir in broth, salt,
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped pepper, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a
Stuffing and turkey in a breakfast dish? Believe it. 1 pound red potatoes, chopped boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring
Host a Black Friday brunch and use up leftovers 1 medium yellow onion, chopped occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about
in the tastiest way. 1 red bell pepper, chopped 30 minutes.
1½ teaspoons kosher salt 3. Add turkey; cook, stirring occasionally, until
2 cups cooked stuffing or dressing ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper rice is tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm.
4 large egg yolks 2 cups chopped roasted turkey Garnish with pepper and thyme, if desired.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2023 48
SwEeTs & TrEaTs
ShOwCaSe tHe sEaSoN’s sWeEt sIdE wItH tHeSe mEmOrAbLe hOlIdAy dEsSeRtS
CRANBERRY-
APPLE PIE
page 57
Cake:
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1½ cups self-rising flour
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ cup whole milk
½ cup molasses
Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
½ teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Crust:
2 (5.3-ounce) packages shortbread
cookies* (about 3 cups)
31⁄2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
21⁄2 cups fresh or thawed frozen cranberries
1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon orange marmalade
1 teaspoon orange zest
Topping:
1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
21⁄2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
21⁄2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1⁄8 teaspoon ground cardamom
41⁄2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1⁄3 cup cashews, chopped
1 (4-ounce) bar white chocolate, melted
1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 9-inch ItAlIaN CrEaM SkIlLeT CaKe 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 9-inch
square cast-iron skillet with cooking spray. Makes 1 (9-inch) cake square or round cast-iron skillet with baking
2. For crust: In the work bowl of a food spray with flour.
processor, pulse cookies until finely ground. Light and fluffy, this one-layer skillet cake is a 2. For cake: In a large bowl, beat butter and
Transfer to a large bowl; stir in melted butter. Southern classic everyone will want a slice of. granulated sugar with a mixer at medium
Press mixture into prepared skillet. speed until fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes, stopping to
3. Bake for 5 minutes. Cake: scrape sides of bowl. Add eggs, one at a time,
4. For filling: In a large bowl, combine ½ cup unsalted butter, softened beating well after each addition.
cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, 1 cup granulated sugar 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and
marmalade, and zest. Using a potato masher, 3 large eggs baking soda. With mixer at low speed, gradually
lightly crush half of cranberries. Spread 1 cup all-purpose flour add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately
mixture over prepared crust. ½ teaspoon baking soda with buttermilk, beginning and ending with
5. For topping: In a medium bowl, whisk ½ cup whole buttermilk flour mixture, beating just until combined after
together flour, sugars, cinnamon, and ½ cup sweetened flaked coconut each addition. Stir in coconut, pecans, and
cardamom. Add butter, and beat with a mixer ½ cup chopped pecans vanilla. Pour batter into prepared skillet.
at medium speed until combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4. Bake until a wooden pick inserted in center
cashews. Sprinkle over cranberry layer. comes out clean, about 30 minutes.
6. Bake until topping is golden brown and Frosting: 5. For frosting: In a large bowl, beat
fruit is bubbling, about 30 minutes, loosely 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened cream cheese and butter with a mixer at
covering with foil to prevent excess browning, ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened medium speed until creamy. Gradually add
if necessary. Let cool completely. Drizzle with 1 (16-ounce) package confectioners’ sugar confectioners’ sugar, beating until combined.
melted white chocolate. 1 teaspoon almond extract Add almond extract, beating until smooth.
Garnish: sweetened flaked coconut, chopped Spread frosting on top of cake. Garnish with
*We used Walker’s Shortbread. pecans coconut and pecans, if desired.
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2023 60
Remembering
a
BY MORGAN CRAWFORD SCOTT
JuSt aS tReAsUrEd cAsT iRoN lAsTs fOr yEaRs aNd iS pAsSeD dOwN tHrOuGh gEnErAtIoNs
wItH sWeEt mEmOrIeS nEvEr tO bE fOrGoTtEn, sO wIlL PhYlLiS HoFfMaN DePiAnO’s lEgAcY.
B
efore Southern Cast Iron magazine woman with an entrepreneurial spirit and Hoffman Media (previously known as
graced newsstands nationally in and many hobbies including everything Symbol of Excellence Publishers, Inc.) was
2015, one publication paved the from sewing embroidery and playing the born. Much later, Phyllis’s twin sons, Eric
way: Just CrossStitch. In 1983, Phyllis organ to relishing in Southern cooking Hoffman and Brian Hart Hoffman, would
Hoffman DePiano left her successful and collecting heirloom cast-iron pieces, join Hoffman Media and work alongside her
career in accounting to stay home and Phyllis had an idea to create a magazine that for the past 16 years.
raise her young twin boys. A multitalented celebrated all things counted-cross-stitch,
Filling:
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 (1-pound) package mild breakfast sausage
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon water
APPLE
SKILLET CAKE
page 78
MAPLE PECAN
BLONDIES
page 83
Makes 10
Z
DECODING DUMPLINGS Z
FrOm hOmEmAdE bRoTh tO lIgHt aNd fLuFfY dUmPlInGs,
tHiS iCoNiC SoUtHeRn cOmFoRt fOoD iS a fAvOrItE fOr gOoD rEaSoN
When thinking through the ultimate comfort foods, homemade chicken and dumplings is likely at the top of the list for many
folks, young and old alike. Nothing is quite as satisfying as a warm, savory broth layered with velvety goodness and tender bites
of chicken. You probably enjoyed your first bowl of chicken and dumplings back in childhood, watching your mom or grandma
plop whatever shaped dumplings they preferred into a homemade broth that they seemingly always had on hand. You were just
happy to be the recipient of this cozy creation all while watching a master at work. But mastering this beloved dish is much easier
than you think. Secure your favorite cast-iron Dutch oven and grab a trusty rolling pin, and we’ll walk you through all you need
to know so you can gather around the table for a dinner to remember in no time.
ChIcKeN aNd DuMpLiNgS 1. For broth: In a large cast-iron Dutch oven, heat
Makes 6 to 8 servings 3 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken;
cook until browned, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove
This tried-and-true dish will warm you up from the inside out. chicken, reserving drippings in pot.
2. In same Dutch oven, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil,
Broth: carrots, celery, onion, and leek. Cook, stirring occasionally,
4 tablespoons canola oil, divided until vegetables are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in all-
1 (3-pound) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces purpose flour and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir in 2 quarts
5 large carrots, peeled and diced water, bouillon paste, bay leaves, and pepper; bring to a boil.
4 stalks celery, diced Return chicken to pot. Reduce heat to medium; cover and
1 large onion, diced cook until an instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest
1 large leek, halved lengthwise and sliced into portion of chicken registers 165°, about 45 minutes.
½-inch pieces (white and light green parts only) 3. Remove chicken and bay leaves from pot. Let chicken cool
¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour enough to handle. Shred chicken, discarding skin and bones.
5 cloves garlic, minced Return chicken to pot, and bring to a boil over medium-high
2 quarts water heat. Reduce to a simmer. Stir in parsley.
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon paste 4. For dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk together self-rising
2 dried bay leaves flour and salt. Using a fork, cut butter into flour mixture until
1 teaspoon ground black pepper crumbly. Stir in milk just until dry ingredients are moistened.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish 5. On a lightly floured surface, turn out dough and knead until
dough comes together, 3 to 4 times. Roll to ⅛-inch thickness.
Dumplings: Using a sharp knife, cut into 2-inch squares.
2 cups self-rising flour 6. Drop dumplings, a few at a time, into simmering chicken
1 teaspoon kosher salt mixture. (Do not stir.) Cover and gently shake pot in a circular
3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed motion; cook until dumplings float, 3 to 4 minutes. Garnish
½ cup whole milk with parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
I
started my journey in the kitchen when I was just a young
girl, maybe around 6 or 7 years old. It was a time when I
would eagerly help my mother in the kitchen, from stirring
pots of steaming soups to ensuring the perfect amount of water
for rice. My father might have hoped I’d develop a passion for
tinkering in the garage or something like that, but no, the kitchen
was where I belonged from the start. I was drawn to the hands-on
experience it offered.
What fascinated me most about those early cooking
experiences was the joy of creating something tangible, an end
product that could be enjoyed. Growing up, my mom had a strict
rule: whether you loved the dinner or not, you sat at the table
until the last person had finished eating. This rule led to moments
when I didn’t want to eat certain dishes. Sitting at that table
for what seemed like an eternity, I would start mixing random
ingredients on my plate, much to my mother’s confusion.
It was during these times that my fascination with textures,
tastes, and unexpected cravings began to flourish. I remember
thinking, “I want to start cooking on my own.” So, I did. At a young One of the recipes in the book that holds a special place in
age, I dove into cooking because I loved food. my heart is the Skillet Habanero Cornbread. It’s a dish that pays
As I grew older and moved down to Savannah, Georgia, with homage to my family’s love for corn and our tradition of cooking
my husband, far away from the comforting presence of my mom with fresh ingredients. This cornbread recipe is far from the
and family, I faced the challenge of making home-cooked meals typical store-bought mix; it’s a flavorful blend of cornmeal, honey,
on my own for the first time. I had to fend for myself, which scallions, and fiery hot habanero peppers.
initially felt daunting. That’s when I decided to start my blog, The use of a cast-iron skillet or a tawa (a round cooking pan
The Table of Spice. I wanted to simplify cooking and create meals traditionally used in Indian cooking) is crucial for achieving that
that anyone—regardless of their culinary skills—could prepare. perfect crispy edge while keeping the inside moist and delicious.
I wanted to connect with the people out there also struggling And I personally love using it for things like this because the pan
without their moms just down the street. itself adds flavor because it’s been seasoned with everything that
Then, the blog kept growing and growing to the point where you’ve made in it before.
an opportunity to write a cookbook came my way. I was initially I’m thrilled that my blog and my dishes like this cornbread can
stunned, thinking it might be a joke. Drawing from my Indian inspire others to explore different flavors and culinary traditions.
heritage, I aimed to create something that blended traditional Food is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures.
recipes with modern twists for Southern readers. Food is a celebration of life, a way to connect with our roots, and
I wanted to offer recipes for any occasion, whether it was a quiet an opportunity to create something beautiful for yourself. By
date night at home or a festive holiday celebration. I wanted people blending Southern and Indian flavors, I aim to show people all the
to find a piece of themselves in my cookbook, to be able to recreate world’s delicious possibilities and encourage them to embrace
the flavors of their heritage or explore new culinary horizons. diversity in their cooking and to expand their palates.
89 SOUTHERN CAST IRON
SkIlLeT HaBaNeRo CoRnBrEaD 1 cup butter, melted (You will have some lumps and that’s okay.)
Recipe courtesy of Sweta Patel ½ cup vegetable oil Stir in cheese, scallion, and chopped pepper
Makes 6 servings 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese until well incorporated. Pour batter into
½ cup scallion, chopped prepared pan.
This deliciously spicy cornbread is an ideal 1 to 2 habanero peppers, finely chopped 4. Bake until edges are nice and crispy and a
companion for your favorite bowl of chili. Garnish: butter, honey wooden pick inserted into center comes out
If you’re feeling adventurous, have it for clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately.
breakfast topped with butter and honey. 1. Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a 10-inch Garnish with butter and honey, if desired.
cast-iron skillet or a 13x9-inch pan with butter.
2 cups all-purpose flour 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, corn- •KiTcHeN TiP•
1½ cups yellow cornmeal meal, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Add more or less habanero pepper,
1½ cups sugar 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, depending on the amount of heat you
1½ teaspoons baking powder melted butter, and oil until well combined. desire; you can always substitute the
1 teaspoon baking soda Pour buttermilk mixture into flour mixture, habanero for jalapeño peppers.
2½ cups buttermilk and stir using a wooden spoon to combine.
NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2023 90
From the Pantry
Z
SWEET AS SUGAR Z
BY MORGAN CRAWFORD SCOTT
WhEtHeR yOu’rE a bEgInNeR bAkEr oR sEaSoNeD pRoFeSsIoNaL , your sugar stash is likely well stocked, and if it’s not yet, it soon will be.
Sugar, which is a type of carbohydrate, derives mostly from sugar beets and sugarcane, a crop that grows in many regions with a tropical or
subtropical climate, such as Florida and Hawaii as well as international locations like Brazil and Thailand. From superfine powder to deliciously
gritty granules both incorporated into recipes and sprinkled on top of desserts, this delicious compound is a workhorse in all your favorite recipes.
GRANULATED SUGAR rich flavor, reminiscent of caramel TURBINADO AND when making delicate dishes such
The baseline for all sugars, this type or toffee, to baked goods, and it’s DEMERARA SUGAR as meringue, mousse, and soufflé,
is probably what comes to mind also a worthy ingredient when you Though these two types of but it can do double duty as a
when you think about reaching want to enhance marinades, sauces, minimally refined, raw sugars are replacement for simple syrup in
for a sweetener when baking. Also and more. If you’re in a pinch, you very similar and can be used almost cocktails, too, thanks to its easily
known as white sugar or table can make your own at home by interchangeably, they each shine dissolvable nature. Unfortunately,
sugar, it’s extremely common, easy mixing granulated sugar with a in their own way. Demerara has both varieties, golden and white,
to find, and affordable. It derives touch of molasses. more of a molasses-like flavor, are not that easy to find in the
from sugarcane or sugar beets and while turbinado is more caramel- United States, though very
then goes through a refinement like. Both are coarse, light brown common and well loved in Europe.
CONFECTIONERS’ SUGAR If you can’t secure a bag of
process (where the molasses is granules that are best suited as a
discarded) that results in a white, Also called powdered sugar or finishing sugar. Generously sprinkle superfine sugar, you can make
fine, crystalline form that’s ready icing sugar, this superfine sugar it on top of quick breads and a similar version at home by pulsing
to use in everything, from cookies is easily dissolvable, lending itself pastries like muffins and scones granulated sugar in a blender or
and cakes to bars and brownies. beautifully when stirred into icings for that signature crunch or doll food processor until its fine but
or glazes, as well as sprinkled atop up everyday oatmeal or coffee and not powdery.
baked goods and fruit for visual tea for a delicious enhancement.
BROWN SUGAR appeal and a pop of sweetness.
Coming in a close second on the Most often, you’ll come across the
sugar scale of popularity is brown 10x variety, in which the number SUPERFINE SUGAR
sugar, which is also readily available denotes the fineness of the grind. Also referred to as castor sugar,
and affordable. It is made by You can make it at home by pulsing this type of sugar is reminiscent
combining granulated sugar with a bit of cornstarch (to prevent of granulated sugar but with much
molasses to produce a light or dark caking) with granulated sugar in smaller, finer crystals, like the
brown mixture. Brown sugar adds a blender or food processor. name suggests. It’s frequently used
Now on
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CAST IRON
USE & CARE
If you take the time to properly care for your cast-iron cookware, it will reward
you and your family with generations of loyal service. Follow these tips to keep
your heirlooms—whether seasoned or enameled iron—in tip-top shape.
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A festive celebration of cut,
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Z
QUITE THE GEM Z
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC JAMIESON / RECIPE DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD STYLING BY KATHLEEN KANEN/ STYLING BY COURTNI BODIFORD
83
Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203; Managing Editor, Morgan
Crawford Scott, 2323 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203.
10. Owner: Hoffman Media, 2323 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham,
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