Charlotte’s Chefs Serve Up Holiday Feast Inspiration
Oh, Charlotte! Are you ready? Because “It’s tiiiiimee!” for planning those holiday meals! Whether you’re gearing up for a festive Friendsgiving or a traditional family feast, this lovely city is bursting with flavors, thanks to its top-notch chefs who are sharing their go-to recipes just in time for the holidays.
This year, why not jazz up your holiday table with some unique dishes that will have your guests asking for seconds? You can have everything from pappardelle with lamb ragu to a scrumptious traditional Indian dessert! And let’s not forget, a special cornbread blended from two Thanksgiving classics. With these mouth-watering creations, your holiday meals just might become the talk of the town for years to come!
Cranberry Swirl Cornbread
Chef Jamie Barnes, from “Serving The Culture,” came up with a brilliant idea: combining cornbread and cranberry sauce after a hefty Thanksgiving plate filled with every dish imaginable!
Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1½ cups yellow cornmeal
– 1 tbs. baking powder
– …and more to create a sensational cornbread!
Mix it all up and you’ll have guests lining up for seconds! Who knew leftovers could taste so good?
Southern Cornbread Dressing
Not to be outdone, Chef Joya Courtney, author of “Baby, It’s Just Vegan,” shares her take on the classic dressing that she once struggled to master as a kid.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups self-rising cornmeal
– 4 cups herb stuffing crumbs
– …and several more scrumptious add-ons!
This vegan twist is carefully crafted to ensure no one overdoes it on sage ever again!
Oyster Cornbread Stuffing
Keeping the family tradition alive, Travis Kirkley, culinary director at Indigo Road Hospitality Group, adores his dad’s special oyster cornbread stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale crumbled cornbread
– 3 cups oysters with liquid
– …and other flavorful ingredients to take the stuffing to the next level!
Just imagine enjoying this delightful dish alongside your turkey!
Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions & Bacon
Culinary whiz Chef Larry Schreiber has turned veggie skeptics into believers with his irresistible Brussels sprouts, drizzled with caramelized onions and crispy bacon. Yum!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts
– 3 onions, julienned
– …and you know, a stick of butter!
Auntie D’s Deviled Eggs
Chef Mark Becker from Ava Pizzeria shares a beloved family recipe that guarantees every Thanksgiving gathering features these creamy delights.
Ingredients:
– 14 large eggs
– 3 tablespoons mayo
– …and a sprinkle of paprika for that final touch!
Gone in seconds, you’ll want to make a double batch!
Red Wine Braised Pork Shank
Chef Sam Diminich describes this dish as a luxurious centerpiece that’s as comforting as a family hug! Bring on the fall flavors!
Ingredients:
– 12 pork shanks
– 8 lbs mirepoix
– …and a touch of red wine!
Perfect for an extra-special holiday dinner with loved ones!
Pappardelle with Lamb Ragu
Experience a taste of Italy right in your dining room with Chef Susanne Dillingham’s renowned handmade pasta topped with a heavenly lamb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2.2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 eggs
– …and pack it all with fragrant herbs!
Shrimp Étouffée
And if you’re in the mood for something spicy, Chef Reyaña Radcliffe brings a New Orleans classic that will warm your heart!
Ingredients:
– 1 stick of butter
– 2 lbs shrimp
– …and a sprinkle of bold spices!
Get Ready to Feast!
With all these delicious ideas gathered from Charlotte’s culinary stars, you have everything you need to put together an unforgettable holiday spread. So roll up your sleeves, channel those chef vibes, and get cooking! Your Thanksgiving feast is about to get a serious upgrade!
