Y'all Come On Down for a Southern Holiday: Tips from This is It!

Here at This is It Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q, we know how much the holidays mean to families and friends. It's a time for gathering, sharing stories, and of course, enjoying delicious food. This year, why not add a touch of Southern charm to your holiday celebrations?

Southern cuisine boasts a rich history and a unique blend of flavors, perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy Christmas Eve dinner, or a New Year's Eve bash, incorporating Southern elements can elevate your menu and add a touch of down-home hospitality.

Embracing Southern Flavors:

• Spice Things Up:  Southern cooking isn't afraid of a little kick. Cayenne pepper, paprika, black pepper, and even a touch of chipotle can add depth and warmth to your dishes. Don't be afraid to experiment! Consider a spicy cornbread stuffing for Thanksgiving, a paprika-infused gravy for your Christmas ham, or a chipotle crema for your New Year's Eve appetizers.
• Sweet and Savory: The South is known for its love of sweet and savory combinations.  This can be a fantastic way to add complexity to your holiday meals.  For Thanksgiving, consider a sweet potato pecan casserole or candied Brussels sprouts. For Christmas, try a cranberry-glazed ham or bacon-wrapped dates.  And on New Year's Eve, indulge in some deviled eggs with a touch of sweetness or some pecan-crusted brie.
• Get Saucy:  Southerners are masters of the sauce. From creamy white gravies to tangy BBQ sauces, a good sauce can elevate any dish.  Why not whip up a classic gravy for your turkey or ham, a delicious hot sauce for your deviled eggs, or a tangy BBQ glaze for your holiday shrimp? We even offer a selection of our signature BBQ sauces at This is It, perfect for adding a taste of the South to your table.
• Don't Forget the Comfort Food:  Holidays are about comfort and togetherness. Incorporate some Southern comfort classics to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.  Think creamy mac and cheese, fluffy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, or a comforting bowl of Brunswick stew (a hearty Southern stew with vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood).
  
  

Southern Hospitality at Home:

• Set the Scene: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your gathering. Decorate your space with festive accents in rich, warm colors like red, green, and gold.  Think mason jars filled with fairy lights, festive tablecloths with gingham prints, or fresh flowers from your local market.
• Sweet Treats: No Southern celebration is complete without delicious desserts.  Opt for classic Southern pies like pecan, sweet potato, or pumpkin. For a lighter option, try some pecan pralines, peach cobbler, or a batch of our famous banana pudding.
• Warm Drinks: Offer a selection of warm Southern beverages to keep your guests cozy. Spiked hot apple cider, classic Southern sweet tea with a touch of honey, or a pot of rich, creamy hot chocolate are all perfect choices.
  
  

Southern Inspired Appetizers and Sides:

Here are some mouthwatering Southern-inspired appetizers and sides to get you started:

• Deviled Eggs with Pimento Cheese: A classic Southern twist on a classic appetizer. Deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser, and adding pimento cheese adds a touch of creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade: This Southern staple is a delicious and unexpected starter. Crispy fried green tomatoes with a cool and creamy remoulade sauce are sure to impress your guests.
• Shrimp and Grits: A true Southern comfort food, perfect as a side or enjoyed as a main course for a lighter meal. Creamy grits with succulent shrimp makes for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
• Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey: A classic side dish with a smoky twist. Collard greens are a Southern staple for a reason. Adding smoked turkey adds another layer of flavor and makes it a perfect accompaniment to your main course.
• Pimento Cheese Grits Casserole: This creamy and cheesy casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Rich and decadent, it's perfect for serving alongside roasted turkey or ham.
  
  

Main Course Magic:

• Southern Fried Turkey:  A twist on the traditional roast turkey, a Southern-fried turkey is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Season your turkey generously with spices and then deep fry it for a truly decadent main course.
• Smoked Brisket:  For a luxurious and impressive main course, consider smoking a brisket.  This slow-cooked cut of meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, perfect for a holiday gathering.
• Honey Glazed Ham:  A Southern staple, a honey-glazed ham is a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for your holiday table.  Brine your ham overnight for extra flavor, then glaze it with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and spices for a sticky-sweet perfection.
• Shrimp and Grits Casserole:  Elevate your shrimp and grits by transforming it into a hearty casserole. Layer cooked grits with shrimp, vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, then bake until golden brown and bubbly.
• Candied Pecan Salmon:  This dish offers a lighter and elegant main course option. Salmon fillets are seasoned and baked, then topped with a sweet and crunchy pecan topping for a delightful combination of flavors.

Don't Forget the Drinks:

• Spiked Arnold Palmer: This festive twist on the classic lemonade and iced tea combo is perfect for a holiday gathering.  Combine iced tea, lemonade, and a splash of your favorite bourbon for a refreshing and flavorful drink.
• Spiced Cranberry Punch: A beautiful and festive drink, perfect for a crowd.  Combine cranberry juice, orange juice, ginger ale, and a touch of cinnamon for a warming and delicious punch.

Sweet Endings:

• Pecan Pie: A classic Southern dessert, pecan pie is a must-have for any holiday celebration.  A rich and buttery crust filled with a sweet and nutty pecan praline filling, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: This creamy and comforting casserole is a delicious side dish or dessert option.  Mashed sweet potatoes are combined with brown sugar, butter, and spices, then topped with a pecan streusel for a satisfying and flavorful treat.
• Banana Pudding: This is It's signature banana pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a creamy vanilla pudding create a delightful and nostalgic dessert.

Final Touches:

• Southern Hospitality:  The most important ingredient in any Southern gathering is hospitality. Make your guests feel welcome and comfortable. Offer them seconds, share stories, and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Embrace the Spirit:  The holidays are about celebrating with loved ones. Don't stress over perfection. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the company of your friends and family.
  
  

By incorporating these tips and recipes, you can easily add a touch of Southern charm to your holiday celebrations.  This is It Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q  wishes you a happy and delicious holiday season filled with good food, good company, and plenty of Southern hospitality!