Pineapple Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

This tropically inspired dish elicits remarks rarely heard about fried chicken; for example, I’ve heard it called “refreshing,” “light,” and “delightful.” Brining the chicken in pineapple juice delivers a surprising burst of sweetness with each bite. It’s one of my favorite recipes in this book.

Herbed Buttermilk Biscuits

I grew up eating biscuits several times a week. My grandmothers, Tom and Sa, made very different biscuits, each sort divine in its own right. Thanks to Tom, I learned to appreciate the taste of raw biscuit dough as a child, and I still snack on the last little bit of dough scraps. I think…

Korean-Style Fried Chicken with Gochujang Sauce

Korean fried chicken is shaken midfry to remove crispy bits and pieces that Americans treasure on their fried birds. The result is a thin but beautifully brittle coating. A frying basket (think fast-food French fries) makes the shaking process easier, but a wire mesh colander is a good substitute. Gochujang is a fermented Korean chile…

Dressed-Up Oysters

Oysters beds dot the coast of much of the South. Oysters are a big business and an even greater delicacy. Some people slurp them down raw, others cook them to perfection. You’ll need an oyster knife and an old kitchen towel or glove ready for prying open the shells. Dressed-Up Oysters 6 ounces bacon, chopped…

Chicken Milanesa with Chimichurri

Milanesa is a style of breading and cooking meat that is sometimes called the unofficial dish of Argentina. Often made with steak, Milanesa can also be made with chicken by pounding breast meat, frying it in a skillet, and topping it with a spicy tomato or chimichurri sauce. This recipe is great for beginner fryers.…

Pickled Okra

At the rate okra grows, it’s best to have a plan for all the extra pods, like pickling. You’ll be glad you did months later when you have a tangy and slightly spicy addition to a bloody Mary or pimiento cheese sandwich. Pickled Okra 2½ lbs small fresh okra 7 small fresh green or red…

Breakfast in a Skillet

The best of breakfast comes together here in a big cast-iron skillet. It’s lovely enough to take straight from the oven to the table, even for company. Starting out the day this way sets a pretty high standard for lunch and supper. Preheating the skillet helps the biscuit crumbs stay crisp. Breakfast in a Skillet…

Ten-Layer Lemon Cheese Cake

Many Southerners remember this cake from childhood, but it’s rarely found on tables today. There is no cheese in the recipe and it’s not even distantly related to a cheesecake. This heirloom is simply white cake iced with lemon curd. Published lemon cheese recipes are scarce in all formats. Even an online search turns up…