Delicious Derby Day Traditions: Bluegrass Bourbon and Hot Browns!

As a young girl growing up in upstate New York, each summer I was fortunate to visit Saratoga Springs with my grandfather to “watch the ponies’ race” as he would say. Our time together was thrilling for me as we shared a special bond getting dressed up and making a trip over to Hattie’s Restaurant for their famous fried chicken and a root beer.

When it came time for me to pick the horse I was going to cheer for, my gambling logic wasn’t all that scientific, but typically based upon the name of the horse or the color of the jockey’s silks. I did pick a winner or two over the years, and have fond memories of exciting settings around the track, the food and the traditions.

With Derby Day upon us, it’s a fun time to explore the deep traditions of time honored culinary treats. Although inspired by the Kentucky Derby and the fine people of Louisville, many of these delicious creations are re-created all over the United States on a wide variety of restaurant menus.

Kentucky cooking encompasses a vast amount of southern flavors and plenty of bourbon. Native Americans, the British and African-Americans have all greatly influenced the regional cuisine of Kentucky and the foods associated with the Derby. As a tribute to the Blue Grass State and the longest running sporting event in the United States, make it a winning day for you and your guests with a simple, flavorful and fun Derby day menu.

To follow in the grand form of tradition on race day, put your cooking creativity on track with some of these delicious inspirations.

Kentucky Burgoo – Chicken and beef stew with onions, tomatoes, lima beans, corn cabbage and okra.

Benedictine – Cucumber, onion, cream cheese and mayonnaise tea sandwiches.

Hot Browns – Turkey, tomatoes and bacon on toast with a buttery Swiss cheese sauce.

Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Henry Bain Sauce – Peach, apple and pineapple preserves with orange marmalade, dry mustard and horseradish.

Grilled Bourbon Pork Tenderloin – Marinated in bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper and ground ginger.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken – Garlic and onion powder with paprika, cayenne pepper and black pepper flour battered, served with hot chili sauce.

Garlic Cheese Grits – Buttery grits with sharp cheddar cheese, garlic and a hint of hot sauce.

Sweet Potato Hash – With scallions, cilantro, diced turkey and caramel bourbon sauce.

Mint Julep - Simple syrup with fresh mint and bourbon served over crushed ice.

Sweet Bourbon Punch – Unsweet tea, Sugar, orange juice, limeade and bourbon.

Kentucky Derby Pie – Walnuts, chocolate and bourbon pie, Oh My!

Enjoy the fastest two minutes in sports and for the record, my pick this year is Stay Thirsty. His odds are just so-so, but with No. 4 on the saddle cloth and food and beverage always on my mind, he’s already a winner in my book.

Dig out your seersucker suit and a hat that will put the Royal Wedding to shame as post time is 6:24 pm.

Peace Love Food!