Ep 11. Southern Traditions

Paula's Home Cooking season 8 episode 11, named Southern Traditions, is an ode to the rich culinary heritage of the American South. In this episode, Paula Deen, the queen of Southern cooking, takes us through a journey of some classic recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation in her family.

The episode starts with Paula preparing a quintessential Southern dish, the fried chicken. She shares her secrets to making the perfect crispy and juicy fried chicken with a golden brown crust. She also talks about the importance of marinating the chicken overnight to infuse it with all the flavors.

Next up, Paula makes her famous mac and cheese, a dish that she says is a staple in every Southern household. She uses a combination of sharp cheddar and Velveeta cheese to create a creamy and cheesy sauce which she pours over the elbow macaroni. She then bakes it in the oven until it's golden and bubbly.

Moving on, Paula whips up a batch of Southern-style green beans. She simmers the green beans with sautéed onions, crispy bacon, and a little bit of sugar for a touch of sweetness. She also adds a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

For dessert, Paula makes a classic Southern treat, the pecan pie. She shows us how to make the flaky pie crust from scratch and then fills it with a sweet and nutty mixture of pecans, corn syrup, and brown sugar. She bakes it until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Throughout the episode, Paula shares stories of her childhood and how her family has been cooking these dishes for generations. She also talks about the impact of Southern cuisine on American food culture and how it has influenced many of the dishes we eat today.

Overall, Southern Traditions is a heartwarming and nostalgic episode that celebrates the joys of Southern cooking. Paula's recipes are simple yet delicious, and her passion for her heritage is truly inspiring. Whether you are a Southern transplant or a curious foodie, this episode is not to be missed.